Nate Zwald, ABS COO comments, “The addition of LIC’s pasture-based genetics to ABS adds to our industry-leading position with our Holstein, Jersey and HYVIG programs, and shows our commitment to delivering the type of animals that our clients desire. We are excited about the new herds that our agreement with LIC and their product lineup attracts, and are looking forward to servicing them through the familiar LIC representation, and the broader ABS team.”

“ABS has shown a long history of commitment to the success of dairy producers, and make for a logical partner for LIC because of their extensive marketing network throughout the U.S., and our mutual desire to help producers define their genetic goals and make genetic progress toward those goals,” said Trina Dunning, LIC International Manager.

LIC’s current representative in the United States, Wayne Meyers will continue to service U.S. customers through ABS. “Wayne Meyers and LIC have helped their customers reach their goals for years through their genetics and solutions, which aligns with our goals at ABS to help our customers profit from genetic progress through our commitments to technology and genetic selection,” said Andy Zich, North American Marketing and Communications Manager for ABS.

Herds utilizing pasture-based dairy genetics or considering using the program can now look to ABS as the source in the United States. Contact Wayne Meyers at 810-531-3125 or wayne.meyers@lic.co.nz for more information about LIC genetics.

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global Inc. is the world leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

About LIC

LIC is one of the oldest farming co-operatives in New Zealand, with a proud history of providing solutions to improve farmer prosperity since 1909 through their dairy genetics, farm information systems, herd testing, DNA technology and automation. The company’s head office is in New Zealand, with international subsidiaries in the UK, Ireland, Australia and Brazil. Through the use of distributors, LIC exports to over 20 countries worldwide. For more information go to www.licnz.com.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-livestock-improvement-corp-sign-exclusive-distribution-agreementABS Global Designates 5 New Icon Sires, Graduates 7 Sireshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-designates-5-new-icon-sires-graduates-7-siresTue, 05 Dec 2017 06:00:00 GMTCheri JohnsonMADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, today introduced five new Icon Sires to the market. ABS implemented the Icon Sire program in April as a way to grant early access to top-ranking genetics for its customers on a contractual basis.“We’re excited to be expanding our Icon Sire offering as they make some of our top genetics available earlier than in the past,” Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand ...]]>MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, today introduced five new Icon Sires to the market. ABS implemented the Icon Sire program in April as a way to grant early access to top-ranking genetics for its customers on a contractual basis.“We’re excited to be expanding our Icon Sire offering as they make some of our top genetics available earlier than in the past,” Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand ...MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, today introduced five new Icon Sires to the market. ABS implemented the Icon Sire program in April as a way to grant early access to top-ranking genetics for its customers on a contractual basis.

“We’re excited to be expanding our Icon Sire offering as they make some of our top genetics available earlier than in the past,” Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “Our top Icon Sire today was YODA. He’s remained very high in past rankings and people have been waiting for him. YODA is an extreme production sire with impressive type and we’re happy to introduce him.”

“This is the first time we’re introducing Jersey sires to program,” Amundson continued. “These two bring a combination of traits valued in the Jersey breed. RONDO {3} comes from a strong cow family and reduces body size for feed efficiency while GARNETT {3} is an elite type and udder transmitter .

“We’ve really seen improvement of those sires released in the past year – it’s always nice to see them continue to improve,” Amundson said. “For example, JOSUPER continues to shine as a 5-star semen fertility and 4-star TransitionRight® sire and is ranked as the #2 NM$ and #5 TPI® in the industry.”

29HO16909 COMMANDER took charge on the new graduate list and proved true to his initial genetic prediction. COMMANDER is sure to be a customer satisfaction sire and will be well received in the United States and Canada.

At ABS we recognize the dairymen’s needs. It is our mission to produce a superior sire lineup that tailors to the management style and desires of every herd. We are pleased to announce our newest proven sires that will offer dairymen a variety of traits to help all operations achieve their goals.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-designates-5-new-icon-sires-graduates-7-siresGenus IntelliGen Technologies Partners with Geno – Leading Norwegian Genetics Breederhttp://www.absglobal.com/genus-intelligen-technologies-partners-with-geno-leading-norwegian-genetics-breederTue, 03 Oct 2017 12:05:00 GMTCheri JohnsonGenus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a unit of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces a technology transfer and license agreement of its proprietary sexed genetics technology to Geno, the leading Norwegian bovine genetics producer. Geno will produce sexed Norwegian Red genetics in Norway using Genus’ innovative genetics sexing technology. Geno has had an exclusive partnership with ABS Global (Genus’ bovine genetics division) for several years to market Norwegian Red ge...]]>Genus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a unit of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces a technology transfer and license agreement of its proprietary sexed genetics technology to Geno, the leading Norwegian bovine genetics producer. Geno will produce sexed Norwegian Red genetics in Norway using Genus’ innovative genetics sexing technology. Geno has had an exclusive partnership with ABS Global (Genus’ bovine genetics division) for several years to market Norwegian Red ge...Genus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a unit of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces a technology transfer and license agreement of its proprietary sexed genetics technology to Geno, the leading Norwegian bovine genetics producer. Geno will produce sexed Norwegian Red genetics in Norway using Genus’ innovative genetics sexing technology. Geno has had an exclusive partnership with ABS Global (Genus’ bovine genetics division) for several years to market Norwegian Red genetics, the main dairy breed in Norway, across key global markets.

“Geno is a key partner in the industry and we have been working with them for a number of years,” said Jesús Martínez, IntelliGen Technologies Global Director. “They are well aligned with our business and we’re very excited to help make our novel proprietary technology available to them and their customers in Norway and across the world.”

The IntelliGen Technologies process to develop sexed bovine genetics does not subject cells to the high pressures, electric currents and shear forces used in other sexed semen processes. The result is a product that helps customers maximize their profitability and reach their end goals in a fast and efficient manner.

“As more farmers look to use sexed genetics in their herds, the demand for such technology will expand moving forward,” said Karim Bitar, Genus plc CEO. “We are excited to continue bringing competition to the market for bovine sexed genetics processing, ultimately benefiting dairy and beef producers around the world.”

Geno is a farmer cooperative conducting research and development for cattle breeding and distributing genetic material to more than 30 countries worldwide. Geno handles all exports of Norwegian Red genetics worldwide in cooperation with local distributors and is based in Hamar, Norway.

“As an organization, we are thrilled at the opportunity to offer this technology platform to our farmer-members,” said Lars Kristian Bredahl, Geno COO International. “Providing a differentiated sexed genetic offering will allow our Norwegian Red producers to grow their genetics as never before.”

The Norwegian Red breed is known for superior health and fitness traits. Females tend to have less difficulty calving, breed back easily, and are medium-sized, trouble-free cows that work well in commercial dairies.

“Offering sexed genetics using IntelliGen Technologies to our customers is a natural next step for our organization,” said Sverre Bjornstad, Geno CEO. “We’re excited to work with our long-time partners on this project that will, in turn, help our cooperative grow and thrive.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/genus-intelligen-technologies-partners-with-geno-leading-norwegian-genetics-breederGenus plc Introduces Genus IntelliGen™ Technologieshttp://www.absglobal.com/genus-plc-introduces-genus-intelligen-technologiesTue, 03 Oct 2017 05:35:00 GMTCheri JohnsonGenus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, today launches Genus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a new technology unit within the Genus organization. IntelliGen Technologies, formerly known as Genus Sexed Semen, is the global brand behind the technology that enabled ABS Global to launch Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics in September.“The introduction of IntelliGen Technologies is in strong alignment with the Genus mission of pioneering animal genetic improvement to help nourish the world,”...]]>Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, today launches Genus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a new technology unit within the Genus organization. IntelliGen Technologies, formerly known as Genus Sexed Semen, is the global brand behind the technology that enabled ABS Global to launch Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics in September.“The introduction of IntelliGen Technologies is in strong alignment with the Genus mission of pioneering animal genetic improvement to help nourish the world,”...Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, today launches Genus IntelliGenTM Technologies, a new technology unit within the Genus organization. IntelliGen Technologies, formerly known as Genus Sexed Semen, is the global brand behind the technology that enabled ABS Global to launch Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics in September.

“The introduction of IntelliGen Technologies is in strong alignment with the Genus mission of pioneering animal genetic improvement to help nourish the world,” said Karim Bitar, Genus plc CEO. “The availability of IntelliGen Technologies to the bovine market has the potential to transition the industry globally.

The IntelliGen Technologies process to develop sexed bovine genetics does not subject cells to the high pressures, electric currents and shear forces used in other sexed semen processes. The result is a product that helps customers maximize their profitability and reach their end goals in a fast and efficient manner.

For example, the launch of Sexcel in India last month now helps dairy farmers add more females to their herd and increase the supply of high quality and safe milk. Bull calves, while unwanted by the producer, are considered sacred in the Hindu religion and therefore cannot be sent for slaughter. This results in an overpopulation of unwanted bovines and economic hardship on producers.

“Our technology was carefully designed to offer a unique and innovative solution,” said Jesús Martínez, IntelliGen Technologies Global Director. “This type of innovation will ultimately help farmers provide milk to their children and their country.”

The availability of IntelliGen Technologies to others in the industry creates a competitive marketplace for sexed genetics technology, something that did not exist until recently. For more information on Genus IntelliGen Technologies, go to www.genusplc.com.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/genus-plc-introduces-genus-intelligen-technologiesABS Global Launches Sexcel™ Sexed Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-launches-sexcel-sexed-geneticsFri, 01 Sep 2017 06:00:00 GMTCheri JohnsonMADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, today launches Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics, made using 21st century technology and designed to deliver more high-value pregnancies to dairy herds worldwide.Sexcel harnesses ABS’s best genetics and is produced through a novel, proprietary technology for sexing bovine semen. ]]>MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, today launches Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics, made using 21st century technology and designed to deliver more high-value pregnancies to dairy herds worldwide.Sexcel harnesses ABS’s best genetics and is produced through a novel, proprietary technology for sexing bovine semen. MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, today launches Sexcel™ Sexed Genetics, made using 21st century technology and designed to deliver more high-value pregnancies to dairy herds worldwide.

Sexcel harnesses ABS’s best genetics and is produced through a novel, proprietary technology for sexing bovine semen. This innovative technology does not subject the cells to the high pressures, electric currents and shear forces used to produce the sexed semen historically available to farmers. The result is a superior sexed genetics product that helps customers maximize their profitability in line with their individual economic and herd goals.

Data from ABS Global's Real World Data® (RWD™) database demonstrates that Sexcel achieves a 90 percent relative conception rate when compared to conventional semen and a higher relative conception rate than other sexed semen used by dairy farmers. RWD contains real results from real customers and is sourced from more than 37 million cows from herds located in key dairy markets throughout the world.

“This is an exciting moment for ABS and its customers,” said Nate Zwald, Chief Operating Officer – ABS Global. “Sexcel gives farmers a new option for achieving their desired genetic blueprint and will help them profit through genetic progress. We have a unique product, and trial results show it is a very effective sexed offering for our customers.”

Prior to today’s launch, competition was restricted in the sexed genetics processing industry. Today’s launch marks the first time sexed genetics produced from a new and differentiated technology will be available to farmers. In March 2017, the U.S. federal court held that Sexing Technologies® (ST) had willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the U.S. and granted a permanent injunction against ST. The court’s judgment validates the importance of customer technology choice for sexed genetics.

“Our research has shown that our customers are seeking a stronger line-up of sexed genetics and Sexcel brings that to the marketplace,” said Olivier Hiers, Global Sexed Genetics Brand Manager – ABS Global. “Our ground-breaking technology helps farmers fast forward their genetic progress. It enables their elite heifers to produce the replacement animals they want, while also providing farmers a choice of sexed genetics tailored to their specific needs – including calving ease, milk production, feed efficiency, reduction in disease risk or any number of genetic traits.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-launches-sexcel-sexed-geneticsABS Global Graduates 10 Sires, Designates Pontiff as Icon Sirehttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-10-sires-designates-pontiff-as-icon-sireWed, 09 Aug 2017 05:00:00 GMTCheri JohnsonABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 10 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.“High on our proven list is 29HO17573 SEAGULL-BAY SILVER-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “SILVER truly is an example of how genomics work. He was a standout with his initial genomic prediction and he has proven true today. ]]>ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 10 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.“High on our proven list is 29HO17573 SEAGULL-BAY SILVER-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “SILVER truly is an example of how genomics work. He was a standout with his initial genomic prediction and he has proven true today. ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 10 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.

“High on our proven list is 29HO17573 SEAGULL-BAY SILVER-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “SILVER truly is an example of how genomics work. He was a standout with his initial genomic prediction and he has proven true today. Silver delivers on our global expectations and is a customer satisfaction bull.”

April 2017 graduate 29HO17553 JOSUPER (http://bit.ly/2o799dL) now leads the ABS proven list and had an impressive day. This 5-star semen fertility and 4-star TransitionRight® sire is the #2 NM$ and #3 TPI® sire in the industry and continues to shine with +3,129 milk and +91 protein lbs.

ABS Global is committed to providing the best genetics for each producer’s individual herd. The new graduate line-up features Holstein sires high in milk production, conformation and calving ease while also improving female fertility.

“An elite Jett son, Pontiff is sure to attract attention and should be considered an all around sire for production, health and fitness,” Amundson continues.

At ABS we recognize the dairymen’s needs. It is our mission to produce a superior sire lineup that tailors to the management style and desires of every herd. We are pleased to announce our newest proven sires that will offer dairymen a variety of traits to help all operations achieve their goals.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-10-sires-designates-pontiff-as-icon-sireABS Global Launches NuEra Genetics™ Beef Programhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-launches-nuera-genetics-beef-programWed, 12 Jul 2017 05:00:00 GMTCheri JohnsonMADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, a division of Genus plc, today announces the launch of NuEra Genetics™, the new brand encompassing all proprietary ABS beef breeding programs, evaluations and indexes, which will deliver differentiated and superior terminal genetics for beef supply chain profitability.“ABS is continuing our strong tradition of innovation by using a science-driven approach to create genetics that are designed to optimize the efficiency, profitability, and sustai...]]>MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, a division of Genus plc, today announces the launch of NuEra Genetics™, the new brand encompassing all proprietary ABS beef breeding programs, evaluations and indexes, which will deliver differentiated and superior terminal genetics for beef supply chain profitability.“ABS is continuing our strong tradition of innovation by using a science-driven approach to create genetics that are designed to optimize the efficiency, profitability, and sustai...MADISON, WI, U.S.A. — ABS Global, a division of Genus plc, today announces the launch of NuEra Genetics™, the new brand encompassing all proprietary ABS beef breeding programs, evaluations and indexes, which will deliver differentiated and superior terminal genetics for beef supply chain profitability.

“ABS is continuing our strong tradition of innovation by using a science-driven approach to create genetics that are designed to optimize the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of the beef supply chain,” said Matthew Cleveland, Global Beef Product Development Director – ABS Global. “NuEra Genetics is a pioneering effort to change the way we think about beef genetic improvement. We are using Real World Data® to create products that are tailored to individual systems around the world.”

This targeted approach allows ABS to continuously deliver improved and validated genetics for traits that truly impact a customer’s profitability. NuEra Genetics represents the next chapter of beef cattle improvement and serves as the umbrella brand for all such programs, evaluations and indices that are developed moving forward.

Provide predictable performance by creating a more consistent product for the beef supply chain; and

Produce more value for the producer, feedlot, packer, and retailer by improving production efficiencies, which will drive down production costs thereby adding profitability and increasing sustainability.

“ABS currently has a strong beef genetics program worldwide, and NuEra Genetics only adds to our offerings,” said Jerry Thompson, ABS Global Chief Operating Officer – Beef. “We believe NuEra Genetics has the potential to add significant value to the beef industry globally. We’ve only really just scratched the surface and creating our own genetics to drive customer profitability will help us tap into many areas of growth opportunity.”

One such growing market is Beef on Dairy, a strategy that uses value-adding beef genetics on lower-ranking dairy cows within the herd. This approach is widely used in the United Kingdom and is growing in the European Union and the United States.

“As we see dairymen focus the adoption of sexed genetics on their high-ranking females, NuEra Genetics will provide these producers with elite beef genetics for those lower-ranking cows, adding a significant revenue stream to their businesses,” said Nate Zwald, ABS Global Chief Operating Officer – Dairy.

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-launches-nuera-genetics-beef-programU.S. Litigation Updatehttp://www.absglobal.com/us-litigation-updateFri, 09 Jun 2017 05:00:00 GMTcheri.johnson@genusplc.comCheri JohnsonGenus plc (LSE: GNS), a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces that on June 7, 2017, Inguran, LLC, XY LLC and Cytonome/ST, LLT (collectively ST) filed patent infringement proceedings against ABS Global, Inc., Genus plc and Premium Genetics (UK) Limited (collectively ABS) in the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The new litigation alleges that ABS infringes seven ST patents and asserts trade secret and breach of contract claims. ABS intends to vigorously de...]]>Genus plc (LSE: GNS), a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces that on June 7, 2017, Inguran, LLC, XY LLC and Cytonome/ST, LLT (collectively ST) filed patent infringement proceedings against ABS Global, Inc., Genus plc and Premium Genetics (UK) Limited (collectively ABS) in the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The new litigation alleges that ABS infringes seven ST patents and asserts trade secret and breach of contract claims. ABS intends to vigorously de...Genus plc (LSE: GNS), a global pioneer in animal genetics, announces that on June 7, 2017, Inguran, LLC, XY LLC and Cytonome/ST, LLT (collectively ST) filed patent infringement proceedings against ABS Global, Inc., Genus plc and Premium Genetics (UK) Limited (collectively ABS) in the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The new litigation alleges that ABS infringes seven ST patents and asserts trade secret and breach of contract claims. ABS intends to vigorously defend ST's latest legal action.

The litigation is part of the long running dispute between ST and ABS in connection with the development and launch of Genus Sexed Semen technology (GSS), a proprietary product designed to compete with ST's monopoly in the processing of sexed bovine semen. In previous litigation initiated by ABS, the Court for the Western District of Wisconsin awarded ABS a permanent injunction against ST based on the finding that ST had wilfully maintained an illegal monopoly in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the US since July 2012. The Court also found ABS had infringed two ST patents and awarded damages and post judgment royalties. ABS has filed a notice of appeal on one of these patents and an Inter-Partes Review oral hearing at the US Patent Office is scheduled shortly on the other. The US Patent Office had earlier found two other ST patents challenged by ABS to be unpatentable.

GSS is a novel and proprietary technology for sexing bovine semen that focuses on fertility outcomes and does not subject the sperm cells to the high pressures and sheer forces of the technology currently in use in the industry. The new litigation will not delay the commercial launch of GSS which will launch as scheduled in 2017 in the US and other key markets.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/us-litigation-updateABS Global Contributes to Scholarship Honoring Genetic Pioneer Morris B. Ewinghttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-contributes-to-scholarship-honoring-genetic-pioneer-morris-b-ewingWed, 10 May 2017 05:00:00 GMTWillow HombschThe first-ever Morris B. Ewing ABS Genetic Performance Scholarship will be awarded this summer following a recent $20,000 donation by ABS Global, a division of Genus plc. The scholarship, administered by the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA), honors the late Morris B. ]]>The first-ever Morris B. Ewing ABS Genetic Performance Scholarship will be awarded this summer following a recent $20,000 donation by ABS Global, a division of Genus plc. The scholarship, administered by the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA), honors the late Morris B. The first-ever Morris B. Ewing ABS Genetic Performance Scholarship will be awarded this summer following a recent $20,000 donation by ABS Global, a division of Genus plc. The scholarship, administered by the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA), honors the late Morris B. Ewing, a long-time ABS Jersey sire analyst who was known in the industry for his dedication toward improving Jersey genetics and performance.

The 2017 award will be for $1,750, and include a copy of Ewing’s autobiography, A Time with Jerseys. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a junior or senior undergraduate student seeking a career in genetics, dairy production, large animal veterinary medicine or milk marketing.

The campaign to establish the scholarship began at the 2014 AJCA annual meeting with the publication of Ewing’s book, a 70-page volume that recaps the major highlights in the evolution of dairy cattle breeding in the 20th century and focuses on the progress made by the Jersey breed within the U.S. dairy industry.

“Morris was really a pioneer in Jersey sire improvement,” said Dick Smith, a recent ABS senior sire analyst retiree and long-time colleague of Ewing. “In addition to being a mentor and icon, he was a close personal friend. For those who never had the opportunity to know or work with Morris, his recollections provide a better background on what happened in the Jersey breed on its way to an increasingly important role in the dairy industry of the 21st century.”

David C. Thorbahn, Select Sires CEO and former Ewing colleague at ABS, adds, “This book remembers Morris’s legacy as a geneticist, a supporter of the Jersey cow and a friend to all he met.”

A named scholarship through AJCA may be established with a minimum of $35,000 in funds. To date, at least 55 individuals and farms have donated in Ewing’s name as well as three artificial insemination organizations, including ABS Global, Select Sires and Jerseyland Sires.

Ewing worked at ABS from 1974 to 1989 and greatly influenced the genetics available to the Jersey industry. As a sire analyst, Ewing secured sons of three impact sires: Milestones Generator, Observer Chocolate Soldier and S.S. Quicksilver of Fallneva. Additionally, two of Ewing’s acquisitions for ABS – A-Nine Top Brass and Highland Duncan Lester – were among only 10 sires ever honored with a special issue of Jersey Journal.

“He was there at the birth of data evaluations,” Smith continued. “His primary focus was to improve Jersey cow performance and it showed. We (ABS) had 35 percent of the Jersey market share when he was here.”

Ewing was voted honorary membership by the American Jersey Cattle Club board of directors in 1989, then received the first AJCA-NAJ Award for Meritorious Service in 1999. He remained interested in and connected with the dairy genetics industry until he passed away on Oct. 30, 2013.

In 2015, ABS purchased 51 percent of the company focused on in vitro fertilization (IVF) of bovine embryos.

]]>ABS® Global Inc., a division of Genus plc, recently became the sole owner of In Vitro Brasil S.A. (IVB®). In 2015, ABS purchased 51 percent of the company focused on in vitro fertilization (IVF) of bovine embryos.

ABS Global Inc., a division of Genus plc, recently became the sole owner of In Vitro Brasil S.A. (IVB®). In 2015, ABS purchased 51 percent of the company focused on in vitro fertilization (IVF) of bovine embryos. The negotiation of the remaining shares was expected to take place in 2018, but was completed on March 31.

ABS and IVB have formed a strong and effective partnership,” says Nate Zwald, Chief Operating Officer, ABS Global. “With IVB as a full part of the Genus family, we can advise and help customers around with world with genetic improvement on both the male and female sides of their herd.”

ABS Global is the world's leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and artificial insemination technology, with operations in more than 70 countries. Based in Brazil, IVB operates in 17 countries, including the United States, Colombia, Mexico, Mozambique, and Russia. José Henrique F. Pontes, IVB founder and CEO, will continue overseeing the company within ABS.

“It has been an excellent opportunity for all of IVB to work and learn from ABS colleagues in different countries,” Pontes adds. “The synergy has been quite intense and is already yielding fruit in places and markets never reached before by IVB. We have already achieved results greater than expected, which helped complete the final purchase a year earlier than planned.”

For Ricardo Campos, Director, ABS Latin America, the incorporation of IVB has been a key in ABS’s growth last year. "We were able to build a value proposition based on genetic improvement in combination with our services and programs,” he explains. “This acquisition will allow us to accelerate our expansion plans to use IVF technology to additional countries.”

Growth of IVB has been steady over the past year. For example, in June 2016 an IVB laboratory in Mexico was inaugurated. This in turn allows for the entry of IVB NEO to Mexico. Through the partnership, teams have also developed ground-breaking new products, such as ABS NEO (frozen embryos combining elite male and female genetics) and IVB NEO (fresh or frozen embryos with genetic improvement tailored to a customer’s needs).

“We have high hopes for the future,” Pontes concludes. “Together, ABS and IVB have a compelling offer with which we can help both beef and dairy customers. We have achieved a great deal already and there is more to come.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-purchases-remaining-shares-of-in-vitro-brasilABS Anti-Trust Litigation Factsheethttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-anti-trust-litigation-factsheetThu, 13 Apr 2017 05:00:00 GMTCheri JohnsonWhat you need to know: ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, was granted a permanent injunction that paved the way for ABS to launch its innovative 21st century sexing technology designed to meet the needs of dairy and beef producers around the world. In granting the permanent injunction, the Court confirmed that Sexing Technologies (ST) is prevented from enforcing certain research, marketing and non-compete restrictions under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between ST and ABS.Followi...]]>What you need to know: ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, was granted a permanent injunction that paved the way for ABS to launch its innovative 21st century sexing technology designed to meet the needs of dairy and beef producers around the world. In granting the permanent injunction, the Court confirmed that Sexing Technologies (ST) is prevented from enforcing certain research, marketing and non-compete restrictions under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between ST and ABS.Followi...What you need to know:

ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, was granted a permanent injunction that paved the way for ABS to launch its innovative 21st century sexing technology designed to meet the needs of dairy and beef producers around the world. In granting the permanent injunction, the Court confirmed that Sexing Technologies (ST) is prevented from enforcing certain research, marketing and non-compete restrictions under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between ST and ABS.

Following the March 31, 2017 injunction, ST has issued two press releases restating August 2016 litigation outcomes to cause confusion and diminish the impact of the permanent injunction against them. To clarify, this is old information and a restatement of old news releases from last year.

The Court ruling on March 31 clears the way for ABS to launch its own brand of sexed genetics, Sexcel™, in 2017. Sexcel is produced through a novel technology for sexing bovine semen that does not subject the cells to the high pressures, electric currents and shear forces of the technology currently in use in the industry.

Our excitement around Sexcel continues to grow and this news further strengthens our belief in paving a new way for the industry and for ABS in the near future.

Background:

In August 2016:

On August 12, 2016, ABS won a lawsuit proving that ST willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the U.S. The jury found that ABS had not proved that it had suffered injury as a result of ST’s willful maintenance of monopoly power.

Also on August 12, 2016, the jury considered ST’s counter claims related to two of its U.S. patents (numbers 8,206,987 and 8,198,092) and ST’s counter claims that Genus breached confidentiality obligations under the 2012 semen sorting agreement between the parties.

The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin jury announced that Genus should pay an upfront payment as well as an ongoing royalty on commercialization of Genus Sexed Semen (GSS) technology for the use of two of ST’s U.S. patents, both of which had been determined by the jury to be valid and infringed.

In respect to ABS’s breach of the confidentiality obligations under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between the parties, the jury determined damages to be $750,000.

In March 2017:

On March 31, 2017, the Court granted ABS a permanent injunction in connection with its litigation against ST. In granting the permanent injunction, the Court confirmed that ST is prevented from enforcing certain research, marketing and non-compete restrictions under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between ST and ABS.

This injunction also allows other bull studs in the U.S. to terminate their ST sexed semen processing agreements on 12 months’ notice, without damage or penalty. The injunction will remain in force for five years and ST is required by the Court to give prompt written notice of the Court’s decision to other bull studs using their services.

ABS sought the injunction in light of the jury finding in August 2016, that ST had willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the U.S. since July 2012.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-anti-trust-litigation-factsheetABS Global Graduates 11 Sires with Continued Focus on Profitable Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-11-sires-with-continued-focus-on-profitable-geneticsTue, 04 Apr 2017 05:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 11 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.“Topping our proven list is Uecker Supersire Josuper-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “29HO17553 JOSUPER is truly unmatched in his ability to improve protein and milk production while balancing health and fertility. This 5-star semen fe...]]>ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 11 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.“Topping our proven list is Uecker Supersire Josuper-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “29HO17553 JOSUPER is truly unmatched in his ability to improve protein and milk production while balancing health and fertility. This 5-star semen fe...ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, graduates 11 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits for dairy producers across the globe.

“Topping our proven list is Uecker Supersire Josuper-ET,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “29HO17553 JOSUPER is truly unmatched in his ability to improve protein and milk production while balancing health and fertility. This 5-star semen fertility sire scores well for easy calving, making him desirable for all markets.”

ABS Global is committed to providing the best genetics for each producer’s individual herd. The new graduate line-up features Holstein sires high in milk production, conformation and calving ease while also improving female fertility.

ABS-bred Icon Sires 29HO18296 ACHIEVER and 29HO18343 MEDLEY both rank in the top genomic lists for TPI® and NM$, a thrilling feat for these young bulls. They lead in production, health and are both 5-star TransitionRight® sires.

“Achiever and Medley are early results from our ABS female program,” Amundson continues. “This shows the program is working with the very best genetics and is geared toward improving herds and helping our customers profit from genetic progress.”

At ABS we recognize the dairymen’s needs. It is our mission to produce a superior sire lineup that tailors to the management style and desires of every herd. We are pleased to announce our newest proven sires that will offer dairymen a variety of traits to help all operations achieve their goals.

ABS GLOBAL’S APRIL 2017 GRADUATES

29HO17553 UECKER SUPERSIRE JOSUPER-ET

Industry leading production

Calving ease and fertility specialist

Efficiency driving genetic package; moderate frames and high production

29HO16955 VIEW-HOME MONTEREY-ET

Elite type with no frills

Calving ease and fertility specialist

Shallow, beautiful udders that produce

29HO17503 PEN-COL MERRICK

High type and production

5-star semen fertility

A2/A2 and low SCS

29HO16939 DE-SU 11528 CAPTIVATE-ET

Calving ease and 4-star semen fertility

High component milk

High type with great udders

29HO16980 BUTZ-HILL VERSATILE-ET

Moderate frames and solid production

Calving ease specialist

High components

29HO17511 FARNEAR-TBR-BH GUMBO-ET

Calving ease and A2/A2

Balanced conformation

Milk production without sacrificing udders

29HO16947 UECKER LARGE JOCLAY-ET

High type and production package

From the same family as 29HO17553 JoSuper

Unique proven pedigree

29HO16915 DE-SU 11491 FOSTER-TW

4-star semen fertility and calving ease

High components and healthy daughters

Excellent feet and legs

5-star TransitionRight

29HO16971 LADYS-MANOR MOG LANDOVER-ET

Beautiful udders and excellent feet & legs

4-star semen fertility and calving ease

Impressive daughter fertility

29JE3927 JX FARIA BROTHERS WALTER WHITE {4}-ET

Transmits extreme component test

Dramatic udder improver

From a maternal line that breeds back easily

94HO16937 ARROWSTAR BRAZZLE-IMP-ET

Proven Gold Barbara son

Calving ease and high components

Silky dairy cows that will impress as they mature

For more about our recent ABS graduates, TransitionRight Genetics, or other ABS information, please contact your ABS sales representative or visit the ABS website at www.absglobal.com. To learn more about ABS Icon Sires, go to www.absglobal.com/icon-sires.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-11-sires-with-continued-focus-on-profitable-geneticsABS Global Granted Permanent Injunction Against Sexing Technologieshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-granted-permanent-injunction-against-sexing-technologiesMon, 03 Apr 2017 07:15:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, was granted a permanent injunction in connection with its litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (ST). The injunction was announced by the U.S. ]]>ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, was granted a permanent injunction in connection with its litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (ST). The injunction was announced by the U.S. ABS Global Inc. (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, was granted a permanent injunction in connection with its litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (ST). The injunction was announced by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin on March 31.

In granting the permanent injunction the court confirmed that ST is prevented from enforcing certain research, marketing and non-compete restrictions under the 2012 Semen Sorting Agreement between ST and ABS. It also allows other bull studs in the U.S. to terminate their ST sexed semen processing agreements on 12 months’ notice, without damage or penalty. The injunction will remain in force for five years and ST is required by the Court to give prompt written notice of the Court’s decision to the other bull studs. ABS sought the injunction in light of the jury finding in August 2016, that ST had willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the U.S. since July 2012.

Dairy farmers have a preference for female calves, and the use of sexed semen in artificial insemination is designed to provide customers with female calves. ABS plans to launch its own brand of sexed genetics, Sexcel™, in 2017. Sexcel is produced through a novel technology for sexing bovine semen that does not subject the cells to the high pressures, electric currents and shear forces of the technology currently in use in the industry. The commercial launch of Sexcel will provide ABS customers with new and exciting product to help them profit through genetic progress.

“We are very excited to bring our innovative 21st century technology to the market and introduce competition to the marketplace,” said Nate Zwald, Chief Operating Officer – ABS Global. “We know we have a strong product and trial results validate that we have a very effective sexed offering to present to our customers. We are also excited to bring competition to the market for bovine sexed semen processing, benefiting dairy and beef producers.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-granted-permanent-injunction-against-sexing-technologiesABS Global Develops Research Agreement with Cactus Feeders, Inc.http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-develops-research-agreement-with-cactus-feeders-inc1Thu, 02 Mar 2017 06:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently developed a research collaboration agreement with Cactus Feeders, Inc., to determine the genetics needed for the optimal feedlot-destined animal. ABS Global, headquartered in DeForest, Wis., USA, is a global leader in research, development, and commercialization of elite bovine genetics. Cactus Feeders, headquartered Amarillo, Texas, is the world's largest privately owned cattle feeding operation with 10 large-scale feedyards across Tex...]]>ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently developed a research collaboration agreement with Cactus Feeders, Inc., to determine the genetics needed for the optimal feedlot-destined animal. ABS Global, headquartered in DeForest, Wis., USA, is a global leader in research, development, and commercialization of elite bovine genetics. Cactus Feeders, headquartered Amarillo, Texas, is the world's largest privately owned cattle feeding operation with 10 large-scale feedyards across Tex...ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently developed a research collaboration agreement with Cactus Feeders, Inc., to determine the genetics needed for the optimal feedlot-destined animal. ABS Global, headquartered in DeForest, Wis., USA, is a global leader in research, development, and commercialization of elite bovine genetics. Cactus Feeders, headquartered Amarillo, Texas, is the world's largest privately owned cattle feeding operation with 10 large-scale feedyards across Texas and Kansas; with a one-time capacity of more than 500,000 head .

“Our goal is to use actual commercial data from this program to validate the genetic advantage that can be delivered to Cactus,” said Matthew Cleveland, Global Product Development Director – ABS Global. “Our genetics are being sourced to create the optimal animal that can drive efficiency, profitability, and sustainability for our customers.”

Under the agreement, ABS and Cactus will collaborate on a research and development program aimed at producing a differentiated terminal beef animal, working to increase the production of high quality, red meat compared to like animals that are currently available in the open market.

“At Cactus, our mission is to feed a hungry world,” said Justin Gleghorn, Cactus Director of Value Management. “We view this agreement as a way to improve our product; as well as our business model. This means being forward thinking, innovative, and looking for new ways to provide society with affordable, safe and healthy protein.”

Working in partnership is nothing new for ABS Global and Cactus Feeders. The two have been collaborating on projects for almost five years and this new partnership was a natural next step.

“We really see this new partnership with Cactus as an extension of the success we’ve had working together,” said Todd Sears, North America Beef Sales Director – ABS Global. “While it’s unique to be discovering the value of genetics in the supply chain, working with Cactus is a natural fit on such a project.

The commitment to working with customers in such a manner has been a part of the ABS philosophy for some time. For example, a similar initiative took place in 1996 when ABS partnered with the Circle A ranch in Iberia, Mo., USA, and began collecting individual progeny intake data in 1998. And more recently, ABS has partnered with Agropecuaria Fazenda Brasil, a ranch in Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil, to evaluate feed efficiency in crossbred animals, the first time it had been done in a commercial environment.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-develops-research-agreement-with-cactus-feeders-inc1Nate Zwald Joins ABS Global as Dairy COOhttp://www.absglobal.com/nate-zwald-joins-abs-global-as-dairy-coo1Tue, 07 Feb 2017 06:00:00 GMTWillow HombschNate Zwald has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Chief Operating Officer - Dairy (COO). ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.“We sought a COO with deep dairy genetics expertise, a strong commercial execution focus, and a talented people leader. Nate has all this and more,” said Karim Bitar, Genus plc CEO. ]]>Nate Zwald has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Chief Operating Officer - Dairy (COO). ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.“We sought a COO with deep dairy genetics expertise, a strong commercial execution focus, and a talented people leader. Nate has all this and more,” said Karim Bitar, Genus plc CEO. Nate Zwald has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Chief Operating Officer - Dairy (COO). ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

“We sought a COO with deep dairy genetics expertise, a strong commercial execution focus, and a talented people leader. Nate has all this and more,” said Karim Bitar, Genus plc CEO. “We are thrilled to have Nate on board and are excited about the value he brings to this important position.”

Zwald received his Ph.D. in dairy cattle genetics and MBA from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He completed his Ph.D. while working for Alta Genetics and subsequently worked for the company in a number of North American and global roles. He most recently worked as the U.S. general manager for the company.

“Both our ABS customers and employees are valuable and important,” Zwald said. “Focus on building and empowering our people to make a valued difference for our customers will be reflected positively in the company results. ABS Global has a great history and a strong global brand; I’m excited to add to the next chapter.”

Passionate about the dairy industry, and the role that genetics plays in its future, Nate has shown leadership for the larger industry by sitting on the Board of the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) and has been on the board of the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) for the past 5 years. Throughout his career, Nate has stayed closely connected to the genetic program of his family dairy, Bomaz Farms. They have produced well-known industry and ABS sires including 29HO11153 Homestead, 29HO11849 Boulder, and more recently, young genomic sires 29HO18382 Daredevil and 29HO18611 Skywalker. Nate and his wife, Angela, have three children, all of which are avid Wisconsin Badger fans.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/nate-zwald-joins-abs-global-as-dairy-coo1ABS Global Builds First-Ever Calf Facilityhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-builds-first-ever-calf-facility1Wed, 25 Jan 2017 06:00:00 GMTWillow HombschEver the industry leader, ABS Global has built a facility, named Future Genetics, dedicated to house and care for bull calves under six-months-old. The facility, located near Madison, Wisconsin, USA, allows ABS staff to improve care for animals through better nutrition, veterinary care and biosecurity at an earlier age.“These little guys are our most valuable bulls because they are our future,” said Dr. Jim Meronek, Global Head of Health Assurance, ABS Global.In the past, bulls were ...]]>Ever the industry leader, ABS Global has built a facility, named Future Genetics, dedicated to house and care for bull calves under six-months-old. The facility, located near Madison, Wisconsin, USA, allows ABS staff to improve care for animals through better nutrition, veterinary care and biosecurity at an earlier age.“These little guys are our most valuable bulls because they are our future,” said Dr. Jim Meronek, Global Head of Health Assurance, ABS Global.In the past, bulls were ...

Ever the industry leader, ABS Global has built a facility, named Future Genetics, dedicated to house and care for bull calves under six-months-old. The facility, located near Madison, Wisconsin, USA, allows ABS staff to improve care for animals through better nutrition, veterinary care and biosecurity at an earlier age.

“These little guys are our most valuable bulls because they are our future,” said Dr. Jim Meronek, Global Head of Health Assurance, ABS Global.

In the past, bulls were purchased from breeders at about eight-months-old. Today, through genomics, bull calves that are identified as genetically superior can be brought in between two- and three-months-old.

“Due to the high value elite genomic animals can generate, having these calves under our expert care sooner ensures we maximize their potential,” said Devan Funk, Global Dairy Sire Acquisition Manager, ABS Global.

The state-of-the-art facility was built in 2016 with future expansion in mind. Currently housing approximately 45 calves, the facility was also designed to be as labor efficient as possible and is considered the highest bio-secure facility on the ABS campus.

The facility is designed to maintain separation between calves from different sources. Of course, health of the calves is of utmost priority. Calves are grouped so there is a gap between housing units to avoid nose-to-nose contact and possible spread of disease or infection.

“With the assistance of a sanitation expert from the food industry, we put in a state of the art water purification system at the site to help eliminate further spread of disease,” said Daniel Hodgkin, North American Production Manager, ABS Global. “This system is the equivalent to a municipal water system.”

Once calves reach about six months, they advance to the Gorman arrival facility. Built in 2014, this was the single-largest facility investment at $3.4 million.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-builds-first-ever-calf-facility1ABS Pecplan and Agropecuaria Fazenda Brasil (AFB) to evaluate feed efficiency in crossbred animalshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-pecplan-and-agropecuaria-fazenda-brasil-afb-to-evaluate-feed-efficiency-in-crossbred-animals1Mon, 07 Nov 2016 06:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Pecplan, a subsidiary of ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently partnered with Agropecuaria Fazenda Brasil (AFB), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, one of the most progressive ranches in Brazil and a leader in the production of quality crossbred calves from Nellore cows. Under the agreement, individual feed intake data will be collected on crossbred animals utilizing cutting edge equipment, the first time this has been done in a commercial environment.“ABS Global is deeply commi...]]>ABS Pecplan, a subsidiary of ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently partnered with Agropecuaria Fazenda Brasil (AFB), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, one of the most progressive ranches in Brazil and a leader in the production of quality crossbred calves from Nellore cows. Under the agreement, individual feed intake data will be collected on crossbred animals utilizing cutting edge equipment, the first time this has been done in a commercial environment.“ABS Global is deeply commi...ABS Pecplan, a subsidiary of ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics, recently partnered with Agropecuaria Fazenda Brasil (AFB), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, one of the most progressive ranches in Brazil and a leader in the production of quality crossbred calves from Nellore cows. Under the agreement, individual feed intake data will be collected on crossbred animals utilizing cutting edge equipment, the first time this has been done in a commercial environment.

“ABS Global is deeply committed to accelerating the development of advanced genetics that will improve the efficiency, profitability and sustainability of the global beef industry,” said Jerry Thompson, Chief Operating Officer-Global Beef, ABS Global. “Our partnership with such a highly progressive organization as AFB is another important step toward this goal.”

Work is expected to start this year with plans to test a number of large pens of cattle. Feed intake and growth performance data will be generated using Intergado equipment and, not only will first generation crossbred (F1) animals be evaluated, but also Nellore steers and tri-cross animals.

"AFB is a very well regarded producer in the market. They are well known for reliable, high-volume data and a good systematic approach to keep collecting more data,” said Marcelo Selistre, European Beef Product Manager, ABS Pecplan. “It’s not an easy task to find a ranch like that! This partnership will allow us to get a deeper understanding of the animal’s genetic value by using Real World DataTM. Ultimately, it will help us make much better selection decisions that, in turn, will contribute enormously to the cattle industry as a whole.”

The commitment to selecting highly feed efficient sires has been a part of the ABS philosophy for some time. For example, such an initiative took place in 1996 when ABS partnered with the Circle A ranch in the United States, and began collecting individual progeny intake data in 1998.

This pioneering vision has been in Brazil since 2012 when ABS Pecplan and Rancho da Matinha developed a partnership to collect individual feed intake data of the Nellore breed.

“Having a sophisticated system to measure individual feed intake in a real world crossbreeding environment is pioneering and unique. Additionally, being able to have AFB partner with us is even more valuable because they are well-known in the cattle industry for husbandry management and economic data,” said Frederico D. Glaser, Marketing Manager, ABS Pecplan. “This partnership was formalized through a 10-year cooperation agreement between ABS Pecplan and AFB, which demonstrates the long-term commitment between both parties in this project.”

At AFB, various types of production data are collected, but they also realize that using Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) typically generated in purebred herds will not always work in crossbreeding systems.

“Nutrition today is a major bottleneck,” says Rogério Fonseca Guimarães Peres, AFB General Manager. “Efficiency is something that everyone is looking for. Finding the most efficient genetics will help us increase the profit in our system. This will also reflect in more production by using less input.”

Of note, AFB is celebrating its 10 year anniversary, and, since 2008, 100 percent of the herd is bred using artificial insemination. Currently, there are 18,000 breeding cows at the ranch and all of them have their own individual ID and record.

“We are truly excited about the partnership agreement with AFB,” said Matt Cleveland, Global Product Development Director, ABS Global. “Our findings from this relationship will provide an opportunity for us to improve the efficiency and profitability of crossbred cattle in Brazil and elsewhere.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-pecplan-and-agropecuaria-fazenda-brasil-afb-to-evaluate-feed-efficiency-in-crossbred-animals1National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) Honors Two ABS Employeeshttp://www.absglobal.com/national-association-of-animal-breeders-naab-honors-two-abs-employees1Thu, 03 Nov 2016 05:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Global is proud to have had two employees recently honored by the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) for more than 50 years of dedicated service to the artificial insemination (AI) industry each. These two employees, Fran Weisensel and Vern Meier, have worked at ABS for more than three-quarters of the company’s history.For Fran Weisensel, 58 is a special number. It’s the year he started working at ABS as an intern, and the number of years he’s worked here since....]]>ABS Global is proud to have had two employees recently honored by the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) for more than 50 years of dedicated service to the artificial insemination (AI) industry each. These two employees, Fran Weisensel and Vern Meier, have worked at ABS for more than three-quarters of the company’s history.For Fran Weisensel, 58 is a special number. It’s the year he started working at ABS as an intern, and the number of years he’s worked here since....ABS Global is proud to have had two employees recently honored by the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) for more than 50 years of dedicated service to the artificial insemination (AI) industry each. These two employees, Fran Weisensel and Vern Meier, have worked at ABS for more than three-quarters of the company’s history.

For Fran Weisensel, 58 is a special number. It’s the year he started working at ABS as an intern, and the number of years he’s worked here since.

When he started working full-time in April, 1960, the organization was still known as American Breeders Service. Fran worked as a herdsman at the Madison facilities where he cared for bulls like Bootmaker, Ensign, Ginger, and Wis-Wisconsin.

Once the operation moved to DeForest, Fran started working in the brand new, state-of-the-art Holstein Hilton barn. In this barn, he worked with some of the company’s most famous bulls such as Valiant, Top-Brass, Ken-Royal, Elevation Mars, Don Auger, Ivanhoe Ken, and Marlu Melad.

Fran was always the go-to guy for training new employees on bull handling. He was also the designated handler when the bulls got photographed for marketing and publicity.

Fran retired in 2006 - well, sort of. He continued to help in the Genetic Venture barn with the younger stock and took care of the lawns, flowers, and shrubbery around the ABS DeForest grounds.

He lives on the ABS property and still works three hours a day to ensure operations between DeForest and Dekorra run smoothly. He can often be spotted driving the little white car that brings collections from Dekorra to DeForest for processing.

Vern Meier is another familiar name around ABS. Throughout his 50- plus years here, he has held many different roles in a variety of departments. He started in June 1965 as a mailroom clerk, followed by a short stint in the labs. He then moved on to work in many facets of Information Technology (IT) - as a computer operator, developer, manager of operations, and acting director of IT.

Vern decided he liked hands-on work the most, and got involved with PCs as they came into the world of business. He even worked in Technical Services (TS) as a Heatwatch system installer and support person.

After his time in TS, he became support for PC field and office needs. He then transferred to Marketing, where he held roles as the webmaster and tour guide specialist.

In August 2015, Vern retired, but he continues to work part-time - when it doesn’t interfere with golf, that is.

Vern lives on the ABS DeForest property that his family sold to the company when they bought the land in the 1960’s. He enjoys spending time with his two children and two grandchildren and is starting to travel the world.

“To have not one, but two ABS employees honored by NAAB for their dedication to the AI industry is truly amazing,” says Jesus Martinez, Global Business Development Director. “We’re lucky to have two such gentlemen working for ABS Global and we thank them for helping to make ABS it is today.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/national-association-of-animal-breeders-naab-honors-two-abs-employees1ABS Global and De-Su Holsteins form joint venturehttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-and-de-su-holsteins-form-joint-venture1Thu, 08 Sep 2016 15:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS Global, a division of Genus plc (GNS:LSE), a global pioneer in animal genetics, today announces a joint venture with De-Su Holsteins, North America’s leading independent breeder of high NM$ (net merit dollars) and TPI® (total performance index) Holstein bulls. The partnership, which builds on years of effective collaboration between the organizations, will develop elite and differentiated Holstein genetics for ABS Global customers around the world. The joint venture is n...]]>ABS Global, a division of Genus plc (GNS:LSE), a global pioneer in animal genetics, today announces a joint venture with De-Su Holsteins, North America’s leading independent breeder of high NM$ (net merit dollars) and TPI® (total performance index) Holstein bulls. The partnership, which builds on years of effective collaboration between the organizations, will develop elite and differentiated Holstein genetics for ABS Global customers around the world. The joint venture is n...

ABS Global, a
division of Genus plc (GNS:LSE), a global pioneer in animal genetics, today
announces a joint venture with De-Su Holsteins, North America’s leading independent breeder of high NM$
(net merit dollars) and TPI® (total performance index) Holstein
bulls. The partnership,
which builds on years of effective collaboration between the organizations,
will develop elite and differentiated Holstein genetics for ABS Global
customers around the world.

The joint venture is named “De Novo Genetics” to signal a
new opportunity for the improvement of global Holstein genetics.The De Novo Genetics team will develop a joint breeding program
to combine the best genetics from both De-Su and ABS Global, focusing on the
creation of elite and differentiated Holstein genetics to help increase
customer profitability through improved herd productivity, health and
efficiency.

“De Novo
Genetics will harness the best Holstein genetics from both companies to create
the genetic improvement that our customers need and want, faster than ever
before,” said Saskia Korink, ABS Global COO. “We are delighted to be
strengthening our long-standing partnership with De-Su and in turn to be
expanding our customer offering.”

ABS Global and
De-Su – a family operation based in New Albin, Iowa, U.S.A. – have worked
together for a number of years. Both organizations share a breeding philosophy
of building on traits of economic importance to customers.

“I am excited
to blend De-Su's rich history of genetics with ABS's genetic portfolio,” said
Darin Meyer, De-Su president. “Their commitment to enhancing dairymen's profits
through research and genetic selection is going to be a great foundation for a
collaborative focus on science-based genetic development.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-and-de-su-holsteins-form-joint-venture1Cheri Johnson Joins ABS as Global Communications Managerhttp://www.absglobal.com/cheri-johnson-joins-abs-as-global-communications-manager1Mon, 29 Aug 2016 05:00:00 GMTWillow HombschCheri Johnson has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Global Communications Manager. In this role, she will support the continued growth of the organization by strategically developing and implementing global marketing and communications plans and tactics that tell the ABS Global story.Johnson has written professionally for more than 20 years and agriculture is her passion. She started her career as a newspaper journalist, ...]]>Cheri Johnson has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Global Communications Manager. In this role, she will support the continued growth of the organization by strategically developing and implementing global marketing and communications plans and tactics that tell the ABS Global story.Johnson has written professionally for more than 20 years and agriculture is her passion. She started her career as a newspaper journalist, ...

Cheri Johnson has joined ABS Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies, as the Global Communications Manager. In this role, she will support the continued growth of the organization by strategically developing and implementing global marketing and communications plans and tactics that tell the ABS Global story.

Johnson has written professionally for more than 20 years and agriculture is her passion. She started her career as a newspaper journalist, and then moved into corporate public relations. Before joining ABS, Johnson worked for several advertising and public relations agencies in Minneapolis. She also worked as the U.S. Grains Council communications director, where she dealt with a wide variety of international trade and production issues on a daily basis for the Washington D.C.-based non-profit organization.

“As ABS Global continues to create and deliver differentiated genetic improvement solutions for our customers, Cheri will be a key component in sharing news of our growth and advancements both internally and externally on a global scale,” said Hernando Lopez, ABS Strategy Implementation Lead. “We’re excited to have her on board and to have her be part of our continued goal of creating profit through genetic progress for our customers.”

Johnson earned a Master of Arts in strategic communications management from Concordia University, St. Paul, Minn. She received her Bachelor of Arts in journalism, with an emphasis on public relations, from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Johnson is a member of the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) and former president of the North Central NAMA chapter.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/cheri-johnson-joins-abs-as-global-communications-manager1Postivie News in Anti-Trust Litigationhttp://www.absglobal.com/positive-news-in-anti-trust-litigation1Wed, 17 Aug 2016 19:35:00 GMTChristina TorkelsonPOSITIVE NEWS in ANTI-Trust Litigation DEFOREST, Wis. (Aug. 15, 2016)—ABS Global (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, can now report its plans to move forward in preparation for the launch of its Genus Sexed Semen (‘GSS’) technology, based on the final jury verdict in its anti-trust litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (‘ST’), relating to ABS’ GSS processing technology.ABS is now awaiting the cou...]]>POSITIVE NEWS in ANTI-Trust Litigation DEFOREST, Wis. (Aug. 15, 2016)—ABS Global (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, can now report its plans to move forward in preparation for the launch of its Genus Sexed Semen (‘GSS’) technology, based on the final jury verdict in its anti-trust litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (‘ST’), relating to ABS’ GSS processing technology.ABS is now awaiting the cou...Positive News in Anti-Trust Litigation

ABS Global (ABS), a division of Genus plc, a global pioneer in animal genetics, can now report its plans to move forward in preparation for the launch of its Genus Sexed Semen (‘GSS’) technology, based on the final jury verdict in its anti-trust litigation against Inguran LLC, operating as Sexing Technologies (‘ST’), relating to ABS’ GSS processing technology.

ABS is now awaiting the court’s decision on its request for an injunction which was filed last Friday, August 12, 2016. “The judge must consider the injunction arguments and we expect the process to take 60-90 days,” said Jesus Martinez, ABS’ global business development director. “Once we get a resolution from the injunction decision we will be able to launch our GSS technology.”

In that verdict, delivered earlier in the week, the jury determined that ABS had proved that ST willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the US. “We have long believed that ST was preventing ABS from competing in a fair and open market,” noted Martinez. “We are pleased the jury agreed and are looking forward to the opportunity to bring our GSS technology to the market.”

Late Friday, the US District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin jury announced damages—that Genus should pay ST an upfront payment as well as an ongoing royalty on commercialization of the GSS technology for the use of two of ST's US patents, both of which had been determined by the jury to be valid and infringed. In respect to ABS' breach of the confidentiality obligations under the 2012 semen sorting agreement between the parties, damages were determined by the jury to be $750,000.

GSS is a novel technology for sexing bovine semen that does not subject the sperm cells to the high pressures and forces of the technology currently in use in the industry. Dairy farmers have a preference for female calves, and the use of gender skewed sexed semen in artificial insemination provides customers with female calves from ABS’ elite genetic lines. The commercial launch of GSS will provide ABS' customers with the benefit of a new technology solution for the processing of sexed bovine semen, which will help them accelerate genetic improvement in their herds.

About ABS Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

At the trial, in the US District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, where the verdicts were announced, the jury found that ABS had proved that ST willfully maintained monopoly power in the market for sexed bovine semen processing in the US. The jury found that ABS had not proved that it had suffered injury as a result of ST's willful maintenance of monopoly power.

“We have long believed that ST was preventing ABS from competing in a fair and open market,” said Jesús Martinez, ABS’ global business development director. “All we are seeking is the opportunity to commercially use our GSS technology, and compete fairly in the market for bovine sexed semen processing.”

The jury has still to consider ST's counter claims related to two of its US patents (numbers 8,206,987 and 8,198,092) and ST's counter claims that Genus breached confidentiality obligations under the 2012 semen sorting agreement between the parties. The jury is expected to deliver verdicts on these matters shortly.In addition the jury will also consider, if applicable, a verdict on damages in relation to these matters later this week.

GSS is a novel technology for sexing bovine semen that does not subject the sperm cells to high pressures and forces. Dairy farmers have a preference for female calves, and the useofgender skewed sexed semen in artificial insemination provides customers with female calves from ABS’ elite genetic lines. The commercial launch of GSS would provide ABS' customers with the benefit of a new technology solution for the processing of sexed bovine semen, which will help them accelerate genetic improvement in their herds.

About ABS Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.]]>http://www.absglobal.com/first-decision-in-anti-trust-litigation1ABS Global Graduates 13 Sires Focusing on the Producer’s Needshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-13-sires-focusing-on-the-producers-needs1Thu, 11 Aug 2016 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (August 9, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to graduate 13 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits to benefit dairy producers across the globe.ABS Global is committed to providing the best genetics for each producer’s individual needs. Our new graduate line-up features Holstein and Jersey bulls with str...]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (August 9, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to graduate 13 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide array of favorable traits to benefit dairy producers across the globe.ABS Global is committed to providing the best genetics for each producer’s individual needs. Our new graduate line-up features Holstein and Jersey bulls with str...

ABS Global is committed to providing the best genetics for each producer’s individual needs. Our new graduate line-up features Holstein and Jersey bulls with strengths across the board that will provide dairymen with countless opportunities to make their herds more profitable. Many of our new graduates are also highly-ranked TransitionRight™ sires; by offering this patent-pending genetic selection tool producers can prevent multiple post-calving metabolic disorders ultimately saving time, money, and productivity.

In the Jersey breed, HARRIS claims gold! This new graduate excels as the #1 bull for JPI, Met Merit, and Cheese Merit. HARRIS can offer customers the genetic capabilities for increased fat and protein, calving ease, and high fertility in both purebred and crossbreeding programs.

At ABS we recognize the dairymen’s needs. It is our mission to produce a superior sire lineup that tailors to the management style and desires of every herd. We are pleased to announce our newest proven sires that will offer dairymen a variety of traits to help all operations achieve their goals.

For more information about ABS sires, including our recent graduates, TransitionRight™ Genetics, or the St. Jacobs acquisition, please contact your ABS sales representative or visit the ABS website at www.absglobal.com.

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About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-13-sires-focusing-on-the-producers-needs1ABS Global Acquires International Phenomenon, 29HO17500 DG CHARLEYhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-acquires-international-phenomenon-29ho17500-dg-charley1Tue, 09 Aug 2016 22:20:00 GMTChristina TorkelsonMADISON, WI, U.S.A.—ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has finalized the acquisition of world famous sire 29HO17500 DG Charley from Diamond Genetics of Zwolle, Netherlands. Charley will reside in Genus ABS’ United Kingdom facilities, and producers will have access to his genetics starting with the August 2016 Sire Summary.“The ABS Global sales force is excited to add a sire of this genetic calib...]]>MADISON, WI, U.S.A.—ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has finalized the acquisition of world famous sire 29HO17500 DG Charley from Diamond Genetics of Zwolle, Netherlands. Charley will reside in Genus ABS’ United Kingdom facilities, and producers will have access to his genetics starting with the August 2016 Sire Summary.“The ABS Global sales force is excited to add a sire of this genetic calib...MADISON, WI, U.S.A.—ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has finalized the acquisition of world famous sire 29HO17500 DG Charley from Diamond Genetics of Zwolle, Netherlands. Charley will reside in Genus ABS’ United Kingdom facilities, and producers will have access to his genetics starting with the August 2016 Sire Summary.

“The ABS Global sales force is excited to add a sire of this genetic caliber to our global offering,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “It’s unique to find a sire that appeals to as many international markets at such a young age as Charley does.”

MADISON, WI, U.S.A.—ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has finalized the acquisition of world famous sire 29HO17500 DG Charley from Diamond Genetics of Zwolle, Netherlands. Charley will reside in Genus ABS’ United Kingdom facilities, and producers will have access to his genetics starting with the August 2016 Sire Summary.

"The ABS Global sales force is excited to add a sire of this genetic caliber to our global offering," says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. "It’s unique to find a sire that appeals to as many international markets at such a young age as Charley does."

Charley comes from a particularly strong pedigree, the globally renowned Larcrest Cosmopolitan family. He’s a Supershot son from DG Candide, a Mogul from Larcrest Cale VG-89, followed by Larcrest Crimson EX-93.

“We’re thrilled to have a company with a global reach like Genus ABS fully promoting Charley and making him available for dairymen worldwide,” says Jan de Vries, of Diamond Genetics.

Charley rose to fame in May of 2015 as the number one GTPI bull in the world. He has remained at the top of the genomic sire lists ever since. Producers can expect modern Holstein efficiency from DG Charley with his combination of extreme production (+1,976 Milk, +87 Fat, +63 Protein), superior fitness (PL +7.6, SCS 2.65, +2.5 DPR), and moderate frame size.

“It is rare to find a bull that offers the unique combinations of medium size and a flawless profile for feet and legs and udders, as well as outstanding production and great daughter fertility,” says Ryan Starkenburg, Senior Dairy Geneticist. “When a bull has those unique attributes in addition to great calving ability and fantastic SCS, it is easy to understand why Charley’s genetic profile is highly sought after by breeders around the world.”

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

Headquartered in Zwolle, The Netherlands, Diamond Genetics, is a privately owned company founded in 2001 and has subsidiaries in France, Germany and the US. Diamond Genetics runs one of the world’s leading Holstein breeding programs and has supplied various breed leading bulls to AI companies worldwide.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-acquires-international-phenomenon-29ho17500-dg-charley1Brian Behnke Joins ABS Team as St Jacobs Business Managerhttp://www.absglobal.com/brian-behnke-joins-abs-team-as-st-jacobs-business-manager1Thu, 04 Aug 2016 15:15:00 GMTWillow HombschBrian Behnke has joined ABS Global, Inc. as the new St. Jacobs Business Manager and will have general oversight of the internationally respected product line.“Brian has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. ]]>Brian Behnke has joined ABS Global, Inc. as the new St. Jacobs Business Manager and will have general oversight of the internationally respected product line.“Brian has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. Brian Behnke has joined ABS Global, Inc. as the new St. Jacobs Business Manager and will have general oversight of the internationally respected product line.

“Brian has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. industry, including a thorough understanding of genomics, evaluation systems, and pedigrees that will make him an asset to our global business,” commented Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “His past work experience as a sales manager and sire analyst, along with his ability to work in a team atmosphere, aligns extremely well with this role.”

He will be responsible for the global strategic direction of the St. Jacobs brand and product offering as well as promoting the St. Jacobs brand within the different business regions. His goal will be to grow the brand’s notoriety for overall type improvement by engaging with our sales organization, marketing, product development and supply chain teams regularly.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he studied dairy science, Brian has been very active in the dairy and AI industry for many years. In his most recent position as a sire analyst, he was responsible for the acquisition of elite sires throughout the Midwestern United States. He also has experience as a divisional sales manager overseeing the sales development for a region. He will be based out of DeForest, WI.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/brian-behnke-joins-abs-team-as-st-jacobs-business-manager1ABS Global's Jersey Sales Pass Million Unit Mark for Second Consecutive Yearhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global39s-jersey-sales-pass-million-unit-mark-for-second-consecutive-year1Thu, 04 Aug 2016 15:00:00 GMTWillow HombschABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has concluded their second consecutive year in which more than one million Jersey units were sold. This major milestone is reflective of the Jersey breed’s rising popularity.Based on national DHI records, the American Jersey Cattle Association estimates Jerseys account for over 7% of the current U.S. dairy herd, which is nearly double their presence from 2000. ]]>ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has concluded their second consecutive year in which more than one million Jersey units were sold. This major milestone is reflective of the Jersey breed’s rising popularity.Based on national DHI records, the American Jersey Cattle Association estimates Jerseys account for over 7% of the current U.S. dairy herd, which is nearly double their presence from 2000. ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, has concluded their second consecutive year in which more than one million Jersey units were sold. This major milestone is reflective of the Jersey breed’s rising popularity.

Based on national DHI records, the American Jersey Cattle Association estimates Jerseys account for over 7% of the current U.S. dairy herd, which is nearly double their presence from 2000. Jerseys are gaining in popularity compared to other breeds because they are smaller and often more feed efficient, and have higher levels of fat and protein in their milk. Customers also prize Jerseys because of their genetic capabilities for calving ease, high fertility, and suitability for crossbreeding programs.

“This is a great time for Jerseys, especially at ABS,” said Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “We have consistently offered a balanced lineup of Jerseys, both proven and young genomic sires. As we see the market value of butter fat increase, Jerseys can add more profitability to your herd. This is complemented by the fact that we’re developing more economic, proprietary tools, like Jersey TransitionRight™.”

Some of ABS Global’s Jersey stars include:

29JE3762 Volcano and 29JE3768 Daybreak are both top 5 proven sires for JPI, Net Merit, and Cheese Merit

29JE3866 Harris is ABS’ top ranking genomic sire, one of its most fertile sires, and comes from the same cow family as 29JE3510 HEADLINE and 29JE3114 HALLMARK

29JE3943 PABLO ties HARRIS for GJPI and is an elite Cheese Merit sire

“Not only does ABS bring some of the top proven sires to market, we also have high-performing genomic genetics for our customers to choose from,” said Aaron Horst, ABS Jersey Sire Analyst. “These bulls will continue to provide our customers the Jersey genetics they seek to drive farm profitability.”

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global39s-jersey-sales-pass-million-unit-mark-for-second-consecutive-year1ABS Global Graduates 18 Sires with Continued Focus on Profitable Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-18-sires-with-continued-focus-on-profitable-genetics1Thu, 07 Apr 2016 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (April 6, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to graduate 18 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide-variety of desirable traits to each type of dairy producer around the world. “We want to be the best at maximizing customer profitability through genetic progress. ]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (April 6, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to graduate 18 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide-variety of desirable traits to each type of dairy producer around the world. “We want to be the best at maximizing customer profitability through genetic progress. MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (April 6, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to graduate 18 sires into its proven sire lineup that provide a wide-variety of desirable traits to each type of dairy producer around the world.

“We want to be the best at maximizing customer profitability through genetic progress. And, whether focused on a more efficient operation, individual cows, or the bottom line—our recent graduates, and our entire sire lineup, provide dairymen around the globe with countless opportunities to make their herds more profitable,” says Saskia Korink, Chief Operating Officer. “It’s simple—our genetic solutions provide the right combination of efficiency, health, productivity, calving ease, fertility, and pedigree diversity to help our customers succeed.”

Graduating 18 sires is just one of many big things happening at ABS. ABS Global continues to provide revolutionary genetic selection tools such as patent-pending TransitionRight™ Genetics—which was expanded last week to include the Jersey breed. These product launches support our new customer promise: Profit From Genetic Progress. The excitement doesn’t stop there! ABS also recently acquired St. Jacobs ABC—further demonstrating our commitment to offer customers elite high-type genetics.

“Whether you’re looking for a balanced sire to provide you with a lifetime of profitability, or hoping to introduce superior type genetics into your herd, ABS understands your needs and is building a lineup to help you be more sustainably profitable,” says Mitch Amundson, Global Dairy Brand Manager. “I am excited to introduce you to our newest globally-proven sires that bring you a variety of traits to help your operation succeed.”

29HO16503 SPARKY (ROBUST X SHOTTLE)
· +578NM$ for daughters that contribute to your bottom line
· Excellent for heifer pens
· High components in addition to longevity and efficiency
· From the highly-respected Wesswood-HC Rudy Missy family

29HO16549 MEMPHIS (O-STYLE X RAMOS)
· High production and protein sire
· The picture of profitability
· High fertility and calving ease contained in a moderate frame
· 4-star TransitionRight

29JE3830 DAZZLER (PREMIER X RESTORE)
·Breed leader for PL and among the highest for JUI

·Improves component test and SCS for higher quality milk

·Daughters are great commercial cows with style

·From the accomplished “Daffy” maternal line

For more information about ABS sires, including our recent graduates, TransitionRight™ Genetics, or the St. Jacobs acquisition, please contact your ABS sales representative or visit the ABS website at www.absglobal.com.

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About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (April 1, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, today announces that it has signed an agreement to acquire St. Jacobs Animal Breeding Corp. St. Jacobs has been at the top of the industry for developing elite dairy genetics since 1958. Owned by Tim and Sharyn Abbott of Enosburg, Vermont, U.S.A., St. Jacobs has been the supplier of some of ABS Global’s most prestigious genetics since 1990.

St. Jacobs started as a technician service in Waterloo County, Ontario, Canada in 1958. ABS Global and St. Jacobs started their long-standing and successful partnership 26 years ago. Since then, the combined teams have marketed global star sires such as Dundee, Aftershock, and Destry-RC—and upcoming stars from around the world including Sirwood, O’Kaffeine-RC, and Hy-Class-RC.

“Today is historic for both St. Jacobs and ABS. This sale ensures a long-term home for St. Jacobs, our products, and the brand,” says Tim Abbott, who will remain actively involved with ABS throughout the transition of ownership. “ABS and St. Jacobs are the perfect fit—combining the best elite genetics, delivered by the best people in the industry. I am proud to call the ABS team my family, and now I am entrusting them to take what my family and I have built to the next level.”

Today’s acquisition reflects the strategic decision to take the St. Jacobs product line to the next level—and to grow the business globally. St. Jacobs’ products will continue to be offered by ABS and the existing programs will be preserved. The sale includes all of the St. Jacobs sires, the programs dairy producers around the world already know and utilize, and the iconic St. Jacobs brand. Customers will experience a seamless transition—how they select and purchase St. Jacobs genetics will continue as is. Their ABS representative will continue to be their resource for the high-type genetics offered through the St. Jacobs product line.

“St. Jacobs is the world’s leading provider of show ring and high type sires—and has been an integral part of ABS and the success of our business for the last several decades,” says Saskia Korink, ABS Chief Operating Officer. “This agreement demonstrates a commitment by ABS to continue offering elite genetics, strengthens our leadership in the industry, and is a big step forward in growing the business globally.”

To hear directly from Tim about this exciting news, watch a video of him addressing customers, partners, and friends across the industry at: https://youtu.be/Iv9uZft9iw8.

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About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-acquires-st-jacobs-abc-long-standing-partnership-continues-to-provide-elite-dairy-genetics1ABS Global Announces Jersey TransitionRight™ -- Preventing Transition Cow Disorders through Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-jersey-transitionright-preventing-transition-cow-disorders-through-genetics1Wed, 30 Mar 2016 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 30, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to introduce the second installment of a revolutionary genetic selection tool to help dairy producers resolve age-old struggles during the transition cow period—Jersey TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology, originally released in August 2015 with Holstein TransitionRight Genetics, allows producers around the world to choose ge...]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 30, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to introduce the second installment of a revolutionary genetic selection tool to help dairy producers resolve age-old struggles during the transition cow period—Jersey TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology, originally released in August 2015 with Holstein TransitionRight Genetics, allows producers around the world to choose ge...MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 30, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world’s leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services, is excited to introduce the second installment of a revolutionary genetic selection tool to help dairy producers resolve age-old struggles during the transition cow period—Jersey TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology, originally released in August 2015 with Holstein TransitionRight Genetics, allows producers around the world to choose genetics that minimize the need for preventative and reactionary measures often necessary during the transition period.

Right before and after a cow gives birth, her health is impacted by a negative energy balance and immune system suppression. This can lead to serious health issues such as metritis, mastitis, and other transition cow disorders. With 75 percent of disease in dairy cows occurring during the first 30 days in milk and as much as 50 percent of high-producing cows affected1, transition cow disorders take a major toll on dairy farmers. In one year, farmers can lose up to 10 percent of their herds in the first two months following calving2. Prevention through genetics is now available to help reduce multiple post-calving disorders—and only through ABS Global.

“With the release of Holstein TransitionRight last August, producers around the world quickly incorporated our disease resistance genetics into their overall herd improvement plans—and many of the very first TransitionRight calves will be born in May and entering the milking herd in early 2018,” said Saskia Korink, ABS Global Chief Operating Officer. “Our customers work very hard to manage health issues during the transition cow period with countless tools available to them. Producers can now choose confidently with ABS Global’s Jersey TransitionRight to break this costly cycle—saving them time and up to $50 per cow with each lactation.”

Since 2008, ABS Global has dedicated a team of scientists and geneticists to gather data and develop a proprietary genetic database—Real World Data®. Consisting of more than 20 million cow records from around the globe, Real World Data provides the foundation for genetic selection tools including the ABS Sire Fertility and TransitionRight indices—both created to help customers make better-informed genetic selections.

“TransitionRight has been scientifically validated by our team of geneticists using a robust database of cow records—real data from commercial herds around the world,” said Katie Olson, Ph.D., Global Director for Dairy Product Development. “The data proves that our customers can improve efficiencies and their bottom lines by simply using TransitionRight Genetics.”

Each month, ABS will use Real World Data to provide an economic ranking for both the Holstein and Jersey breeds—and that information can be found on the ABS website and in upcoming sire directories. For more information about TransitionRight and other ABS Global genetic tools visit the ABS website at: www.absglobal.com.

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-jersey-transitionright-preventing-transition-cow-disorders-through-genetics1ABS Global Celebrates 75 Years of Genetic Progress, New Tagline Highlights Customer-Centric Approachhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-celebrates-75-years-of-genetic-progress-new-tagline-highlights-customer-centric-approach1Thu, 24 Mar 2016 05:00:00 GMTJan Francois MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 22, 2016)—Many things across the cattle industry have evolved over the last 75 years, but one thing has remained constant—ABS® Global has been at the forefront of providing products and services to help its customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Since 1941, ABS has been the world leader in developing first-class bovine genetics and providing the best cattle reproduction expertise in the industry. ]]> MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 22, 2016)—Many things across the cattle industry have evolved over the last 75 years, but one thing has remained constant—ABS® Global has been at the forefront of providing products and services to help its customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Since 1941, ABS has been the world leader in developing first-class bovine genetics and providing the best cattle reproduction expertise in the industry.

MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 22, 2016)—Many things across the cattle industry have evolved over the last 75 years, but one thing has remained constant—ABS® Global has been at the forefront of providing products and services to help its customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS.

Since 1941, ABS has been the world leader in developing first-class bovine genetics and providing the best cattle reproduction expertise in the industry. Formed as the American Dairy Guernsey Associates of Northing Illinois with just three Guernsey bulls, ABS has since built a diverse breed and genetic lineup and now serves dairy and beef producers in nearly 80 countries. Over the years, ABS has brought industry-changing genetic progress to its customers—including the global sensation, 29HO12209 PICSTON SHOTTLE, who was the number one Holstein bull in the world for seven straight sire summary releases, and 29AN1640 IN FOCUS—one of the all-time top Angus bulls in the industry for calving ease, growth, maternal value, and docility.

One of ABS Global’s proudest moments is the introduction of frozen semen in 1953, followed by the development of the first storage container for frozen semen using liquid nitrogen. These major milestones completely transformed the way the animal genetics industry operates—and are considered best practice even today.

ABS also built intelligence behind the genetics offered to farmers by developing the Estimated Daughter Superiority measurement in 1963 and being the first-to-market with a computerized mating program, Genetic Mating Service, in 1968. Innovation continues to be a driving force at ABS. Most recently, ABS made headlines by introducing TransitionRight™ genetics—a revolutionary index that helps customers prevent costly transition cow health issues.

As ABS celebrates 75 years of serving some of the very best beef and dairy producers around the world, it is affirming its commitment to its customers by announcing a new tagline: PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS.

“It is a very exciting time to be leading the ABS team. Not only are we celebrating a major milestone that most organizations never get to experience, we are also positioning ourselves to lead profit-focused genetic improvement for the dairy and beef industries,” said Saskia Korink, ABS Global Chief Operating Officer. “As we look to the future, our focus will be on providing the next generation of genetic solutions that will improve herd profitability—and everything we do will align with that customer promise.”

Share your ABS story, show us how ABS genetics have helped you succeed, and stay tuned about anniversary celebrations by visiting our social media channels and using #ABS75th or #ABSHistory.

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of genetic improvement solutions and reproduction services that help customers PROFIT FROM GENETIC PROGRESS. Marketing in nearly 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technologies since its founding 75 years ago. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-celebrates-75-years-of-genetic-progress-new-tagline-highlights-customer-centric-approach1Wisconsin Holstein: Focus on Reproductionhttp://www.absglobal.com/wisconsin-holstein-focus-on-reproduction1Mon, 14 Mar 2016 05:00:00 GMTWillow Hombsch In August of 2015, ABS Global launched TransitionRight Genetics, a patent pending and proprietary index that offers a genetic solution to dairy producers that helps prevent multiple post-calving metabolic disorders that occur during a cow’s transition period. We spoke with Mitch Amundson, ABS Global’s Global Dairy Brand Manager, about the development of this index and how Holstein breeders can utilize this information within their herd. Click the link to read the full article by Wisconsin ...]]> In August of 2015, ABS Global launched TransitionRight Genetics, a patent pending and proprietary index that offers a genetic solution to dairy producers that helps prevent multiple post-calving metabolic disorders that occur during a cow’s transition period. We spoke with Mitch Amundson, ABS Global’s Global Dairy Brand Manager, about the development of this index and how Holstein breeders can utilize this information within their herd. Click the link to read the full article by Wisconsin ... In August of 2015, ABS Global launched TransitionRight Genetics, a patent pending and proprietary index that offers a genetic solution to dairy producers that helps prevent multiple post-calving metabolic disorders that occur during a cow’s transition period. We spoke with Mitch Amundson, ABS Global’s Global Dairy Brand Manager, about the development of this index and how Holstein breeders can utilize this information within their herd.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/wisconsin-holstein-focus-on-reproduction1ABS’ TransitionRight Success Complimented by Zoetis Announcementhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-transitionright-success-complimented-by-zoetis-announcement1Tue, 08 Mar 2016 21:30:00 GMTChristina TorkelsonMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 8, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, is excited by the recent announcement of Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus, as it further augments the success of ABS’ TransitionRight™ program. TransitionRight™ was the first genetic solution to improve the efficiency of transition cows and reduce disease incidence since its global release in August 2015. “When used in combination, Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus along with ABS’ TransitionRight™, dairies will...]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 8, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, is excited by the recent announcement of Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus, as it further augments the success of ABS’ TransitionRight™ program. TransitionRight™ was the first genetic solution to improve the efficiency of transition cows and reduce disease incidence since its global release in August 2015. “When used in combination, Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus along with ABS’ TransitionRight™, dairies will...MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 8, 2016)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, is excited by the recent announcement of Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus, as it further augments the success of ABS’ TransitionRight™ program. TransitionRight™ was the first genetic solution to improve the efficiency of transition cows and reduce disease incidence since its global release in August 2015.

“When used in combination, Zoetis’ Clarifide®Plus along with ABS’ TransitionRight™, dairies will receive a compounded advantage of using the best of the best technologies,” says ABS’s General Manager Richard Williams. “ABS provides genetics from the male side that can help to prevent the costly diseases of Ketosis, Mastitis and Metritis. Coupling this with the Zoetis genetic test on the female side can help compound those financial benefits.”

“The announcement from Zoetis validates our view that addressing issues in the transition cow period is important and valued by dairymen as a critical area that affects profitability of the herd,” says Dr. Katie Olson, ABS’ Global Director of Dairy Product Development. “This is a combination of value that no other A.I. company can offer. ABS continues to be a pioneer in the A.I. industry to help dairies reach their goals and get more profit from their genetic progress.” For more information on TransitionRight’s innovative benefits to dairies, visit: ABSTransitionRight.com

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-transitionright-success-complimented-by-zoetis-announcement1ABS Global Graduates 18 Sires Lineup Includes High-performing TransitionRight™ Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-18-sires-lineup-includes-high-performing-transitionright-genetics1Tue, 08 Dec 2015 06:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (December 8, 2015) — ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to announce another strong sire lineup with 18 new graduates from 10 different sires. These graduates are certain to impress the market and deliver the genetic gains our customers are seeking. ]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (December 8, 2015) — ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to announce another strong sire lineup with 18 new graduates from 10 different sires. These graduates are certain to impress the market and deliver the genetic gains our customers are seeking. MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (December 8, 2015) — ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to announce another strong sire lineup with 18 new graduates from 10 different sires. These graduates are certain to impress the market and deliver the genetic gains our customers are seeking. Our globally-marketed graduates average +1.5 DPR, 7.2 sire calving ease, +862 PTAM, and +479 NM$--and seven of them bring more than +1,000 milk.

Our graduates are not the only thing that is exciting at ABS—we continue to provide a revolutionary genetic selection tool to dairy farmers around the globe—TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology helps resolve the age-old struggles of how to prevent and react to health issues that arise during the transition cow period. ABS customers have been using TransitionRight for several months now to select genetics that minimize the need for preventive and reactionary measures often necessary during this time—saving them time and up to $100 per cow with each lactation.

ABS Global’s December 2015 Graduates

29HO16561 RUPERT (ROBUST x PLANET)

ABS Global’s top-performing new graduate

Balanced proof from the DE-SU GEORGIA family

Health trait leader with +6.7 PL and 2.77 SCS

Moderate stature coupled with strong, wide frames

4-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16470 MAYNARD (BEACON X O MAN)

BEACON brother to world-renowned ROBUST

Great calving ease, outstanding production and components

3-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16433 ATHENS (ROBUST X PLANET)

ABS Global’s proven leader at 632 NM$

Great calving ease and frame size reducer

Milk, fat, and protein leader

5-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16399 ODIN (OBSERVER X SHOTTLE)

Type specialist

Tall, dairy, open frames

Lower SCS while significantly improving production

3-star TransitionRight

29HO16405 BRONO (OBSERVER x BOLTON)

Reduces frame size while improving udders

Modern, balanced sire

3-star TransitionRight

29HO16438 CONTOUR (BEACON x RAMOS)

From the famous COSMOPOLITAN family

Calving ease, good components

Extremely high +3.2 DPR

Full brother to CRUX

5-star TransitionRight

29HO16385 PARISH (TWIST x PLANET)

Excellent overall production and components

Number 3 proven NM$ ABS bull

From the trend-setting sire TWIST

4-star TransitionRight

29HO16472 ARMANI (GERARD x ALTABAXTER)

Outcross GERARD X ALTABAXTER pedigree

Excellent production without compromising fertility

4-star TransitionRight

29HO16396 BUFF (FREDDIE x ALTAALLY)

Outcross genetics

Perfect sire for the heifer pen

Calving ease, and extreme DPR

5-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16443 CRUX (BEACON x RAMOS)

Tremendous milk quality improver with 2.54 SCS

Well-attached fore udders, functional feet and legs

Overall health and fertility

Full brother to CONTOUR

4-star TransitionRight

29HO16544 CHARGER (BOOKEM x MAC)

Great milk and calving ease

Early BOOKEM son

4-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16334 COMMANDO (MAN-O-MAN x MAC)

High fat and protein

Elite DPR and SCS

Calving ease

5-star TransitionRight

29HO16378 DUBLIN (OBSERVER x OUTSIDE)

5.5 calving ease and the complete health and fertility package

Reduces frame size

Son of the famed OUTSIDE DABBLE

5-star TransitionRight

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16473 VALOR (BEACON x PLANET)

Balanced type, production, and fitness

High and wide rear udder attachments with ideal teat placement

3-star TransitionRight

4-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16384 DAVID (MANIFOLD x GOLDWYN)

Calving ease

Reduces frame size while improving type

Rare MANIFOLD son

3-star TransitionRight

5-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16421 DINERO (RICHMAN x DIE-HARD)

Outcross pedigree

Calving ease

Extreme milk and positive DPR—a rare combination

3-star Real World Data Bull Fertility

29HO16248 SOPRANO (OBSERVER x GOLDWYN)

Extreme udders and type

Tremendous rear udder improvement

Phenomenal SCS

3-star TransitionRight

29HO16324 DORADA (OBSERVER x GOLDWYN)

Excellent type and calving ease

Descends from OBSERVER X GOLDWYN X ALLEN X EX-95 DUR CHAN

3-star TransitionRight

Other exciting additions to our lineup include a proven sire from our St. Jacob’s ABC partnership and two sires entering the Genus ABS market. Information about these sires is below.

94HO16487 FREEZE (G W ATWOOD x ROY)

From two-time World Dairy Expo Supreme Champion EX-97 3E FROSTY

New proven type outlier from St. Jacob’s ABC

Calving ease and extreme type

Improves milk and fat

29HO12969 BELLISSIMO (GARRETT x MASCOL)

High fat and protein

Moderate size with great legs and feet

Follows in the footsteps of ABS icon GARRETT

29HO17041 ACER (ALTAIOTA x MAESTRO)

High fat percent

Calving ease

Shallow udders with strong center support

4-star TransitionRight

For more information about our recent graduates, any other ABS bulls, or TransitionRight Genetics, please contact your respective sales representative or visit the ABS website at www.absglobal.com.

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-graduates-18-sires-lineup-includes-high-performing-transitionright-genetics1ABS Global Holds Roundtable Eventhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-holds-roundtable-event1Wed, 07 Oct 2015 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisDEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 – ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest Beef Representatives in North America during its annual Beef Rep Roundtable event September 21st – 23rd. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and bull tour. ]]>DEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 – ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest Beef Representatives in North America during its annual Beef Rep Roundtable event September 21st – 23rd. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and bull tour. DEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 – ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest Beef Representatives in North America during its annual Beef Rep Roundtable event September 21st – 23rd. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and bull tour. Richard Williams, ABS Global General Manager for North America, stated, “One of the goals for this event was to be a source of idea transfer for ABS’s top performing and fastest growing beef reps, and how they can improve their own businesses.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

###

CONTACT: Andy Zich

(608) 846-1432
Andy.Zich@genusplc.com

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-holds-roundtable-event1ABS Global Holds Awards and Roundtable Eventhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-holds-awards-and-roundtable-event1Wed, 07 Oct 2015 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisDEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 - ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest dairy representatives in North America during its annual dairy rep roundtable event on September 14th and 15th. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and the awards program. ]]>DEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 - ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest dairy representatives in North America during its annual dairy rep roundtable event on September 14th and 15th. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and the awards program. DEFOREST, Wis., October 7, 2015 - ABS Global, Inc. recognized and celebrated some of its finest dairy representatives in North America during its annual dairy rep roundtable event on September 14th and 15th. The event included multiple roundtable discussion forums, industry speakers, and the awards program. Richard Williams, ABS Global general manager for North America, stated, “One of the goals for this event was to be a source of idea transfer for ABS’s top performing and fastest growing dairy reps, and how they can improve their own businesses.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

###

CONTACT: Andy Zich

Andy.Zich@genusplc.com

(608) 846-1432

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-holds-awards-and-roundtable-event1ABS & St. Jacobs ABC Host Training Summit, North America Sales Representatives and Employees attend VT Traininghttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-amp-st-jacobs-abc-host-training-summit-north-america-sales-representatives-and-employees-attend-vt-training1Thu, 27 Aug 2015 15:00:00 GMTJan Francois DEFOREST, WISCONSIN – August 27, 2015 – ABS Global prides itself in the quality of their people and setting the industry standard in customer service through professional Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople. Nineteen Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople from across North America traveled to Burlington, VT this week to participate in a dairy genetics training summit. “ABS is pleased to have a partnership with St. Jacobs ABC, not only ...]]> DEFOREST, WISCONSIN – August 27, 2015 – ABS Global prides itself in the quality of their people and setting the industry standard in customer service through professional Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople. Nineteen Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople from across North America traveled to Burlington, VT this week to participate in a dairy genetics training summit. “ABS is pleased to have a partnership with St. Jacobs ABC, not only ...

DEFOREST, WISCONSIN – August 27, 2015 – ABS Global prides itself in the quality of their people and setting the industry standard in customer service through professional Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople. Nineteen Authorized Sales Representatives and Employed Salespeople from across North America traveled to Burlington, VT this week to participate in a dairy genetics training summit.

“ABS is pleased to have a partnership with St. Jacobs ABC, not only for their genetic offering, but also to be able to utilize industry leaders such as Tim Abbott and Bob Fitzsimmons to impart their knowledge to our sales force,” stated Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Brand Manager. “Their commitment to ABS, our mutual customers and salespeople was on full display this week.”

“It was truly an exhilarating feeling to be a part of this training program. The salespeople were really engaged from the beginning to the end,” states Tim Abbott, owner of St. Jacobs ABC. “It was a great deal of fun for Bob and I to be able to support and help these salespeople improve their genetic product knowledge. This group is passionate about the dairy industry and created an energized learning environment. We were able to learn from the attendees as well!”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-amp-st-jacobs-abc-host-training-summit-north-america-sales-representatives-and-employees-attend-vt-training1ABS Global Announces TransitionRight™ Genetics - Preventing Transition Cow Disorders Through Geneticshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-transitionright-genetics-preventing-transition-cow-disorders-through-genetics1Tue, 04 Aug 2015 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (August 3, 2015)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to introduce a revolutionary genetic selection tool to global dairy farmers—TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology will help to resolve the age-old struggles of how to prevent and react to health issues that arise during the transition cow period. ]]>MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (August 3, 2015)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to introduce a revolutionary genetic selection tool to global dairy farmers—TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending technology will help to resolve the age-old struggles of how to prevent and react to health issues that arise during the transition cow period. MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (August 3, 2015)— ABS® Global, the world leader in bovine genetics,
reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, is excited to introduce
a revolutionary genetic selection tool
to global dairy farmers—TransitionRight Genetics. This patent-pending
technology will help to resolve the age-old struggles of how to prevent and react
to health issues that arise during the transition cow period. ABS customers can
now use TransitionRight to select genetics that minimize the need for
preventive and reactionary measures often necessary during this time.

Right before and after a cow gives birth, her
health is impacted by a negative energy balance and immune system suppression.
This can lead to serious health issues such as metritis, ketosis, mastitis, and
other transition cow disorders. With 75 percent of disease in dairy cows
occurring during the first 30 days in milk and as much as 50 percent of high-producing
cows affected1, transition cow disorders take a major toll on dairy
farmers. In one year, farmers can lose up to 10 percent of their herds in the first
two months following calving2.Prevention through genetics has not been available to help reduce
multiple post-calving disorders—until now!

“Producers have done their best year after
year to manage health issues during the transition cow period with the various tools
that have been available to them,” said Saskia Korink, ABS Global Chief
Operating Officer. “Now, our customers can change their approach and start
selecting TransitionRight Genetics tobreak
this costly cycle—saving them time and up to $100 per cow with each lactation.”

Since 2008, ABS Global has dedicated a team
of scientists and geneticists to gather data and develop a proprietary genetic
database—Real World Data. Consisting of more than 20 million cow records from
around the globe, Real World Data provides the foundation for genetic selection
tools including ABS Sire Fertility and TransitionRight—both created to help customers
make better-informed genetic selections.

“By using real producer data from commercial
herds, ABS Geneticists have developed a solution for a very serious problem
that all dairy farmers are faced with,” said Katie Olson, Ph.D., Lead Research
Scientist. “TransitionRight measures health traits related to the transition cow
period and scores sires with an economic ranking. We’ve equipped our customers
with an easy-to-use tool to choose genetics that improve a herd’s robustness
against metritis, ketosis, mastitis, and other transition cow issues. The
introduction of these genetics will help prevent multiple post-calving
metabolic disorders that occur during transition- the most crucial period in a
cow’s life.”

ABS will provide an economic ranking for its
Holstein sires beginning August 11, 2015 and will use Real World Data to update
the ranking monthly.

For more information about TransitionRight
and other ABS Global genetic tools visit the ABS website at: www.absglobal.com

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A.,
ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of
bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies,
and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe,
ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its
founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-transitionright-genetics-preventing-transition-cow-disorders-through-genetics1New ABS Global employees and representatives participate in weeklong orientationhttp://www.absglobal.com/new-abs-global-employees-and-representatives-participate-in-weeklong-orientation1Thu, 23 Jul 2015 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisDEFOREST, WIS. – July 20, 2015… Nearly thirty professional technicians, sales representatives, customer service professionals, and interns took part in ABS Global’s new employee orientation held June 16 through the 18 in Madison, Wis. Employees from all over the United States were present for the event. Participants learned about ABS Global’s history, sales techniques, communication standards, team building, goal setting, and time management skills. “Orientation provides our e...]]>DEFOREST, WIS. – July 20, 2015… Nearly thirty professional technicians, sales representatives, customer service professionals, and interns took part in ABS Global’s new employee orientation held June 16 through the 18 in Madison, Wis. Employees from all over the United States were present for the event. Participants learned about ABS Global’s history, sales techniques, communication standards, team building, goal setting, and time management skills. “Orientation provides our e...

DEFOREST, WIS. – July 20, 2015… Nearly thirty professional technicians, sales representatives, customer service professionals, and interns took part in ABS Global’s new employee orientation held June 16 through the 18 in Madison, Wis. Employees from all over the United States were present for the event. Participants learned about ABS Global’s history, sales techniques, communication standards, team building, goal setting, and time management skills.

“Orientation provides our employees and authorized representatives a foundation to better service ABS Global customers. It gave participants a variety of different opportunities, including a visit to an ABS customer farm and the chance to connect with the office staff in DeForest,” Richard Williams, the North America general manager explained, “For our sales team, this was the first step into a comprehensive sales curriculum to ensure success for our staff around how to better serve their customers.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/new-abs-global-employees-and-representatives-participate-in-weeklong-orientation1DORCY and MONTEREY Top Strong ABS Lineuphttp://www.absglobal.com/dorcy-and-monterey-top-strong-abs-lineup1Fri, 17 Apr 2015 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisDEFOREST, WIS. (April 10, 2015) – In a solid April sire summary run, proven sire DORCY is once again the highest living sire on the official Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM List. ABS Primetime® Sire MONTEREY leads the genomic lineup at ABS Global and lands fourth on the Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM Genomic Young Bull List. ]]>DEFOREST, WIS. (April 10, 2015) – In a solid April sire summary run, proven sire DORCY is once again the highest living sire on the official Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM List. ABS Primetime® Sire MONTEREY leads the genomic lineup at ABS Global and lands fourth on the Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM Genomic Young Bull List. DEFOREST,
WIS. (April 10, 2015) – In a solid April sire summary run, proven sire DORCY is once again the
highest living sire on the official Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM List.
ABS Primetime® Sire MONTEREY leads the genomic lineup at ABS Global and lands
fourth on the Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM Genomic Young Bull List.
These sires, in addition to seven Holstein and one Jersey graduate, complete a
solid lineup of bulls for producer profitability and improving the bottom line.

BOLTON son
29HO14142 DORCY continues to get better each sire summary, with a TPI now at
+2318. At +1800 Milk, +682 NM$, +.3 DPR and 2.67 SCS, in addition to +2.99 PTAT,
+3.24 UDC and +2.96 FLC, DORCY is making daughters that can produce high
volumes of quality milk without sacrificing type.

29HO16955 MONTEREY is one
of the most intriguing genomic young sires to ever hit the ABS market. This
McCutchen x Robust x Zenith x SHOTTLE son combines a unique pedigree with
industry-leading TPI and Net Merit rankings at +2578 GTPI and +859 NM$. From
the Rudy Missy family, MONTEREY excels in all key areas for production, health,
fitness and type, with +3.74 PTAT, +1571 M, +83 F, +65 P, +.7 DPR and 6.9% CE.

With every
sire run, ABS becomes increasingly committed to providing sires with
outstanding health traits.The latest graduates are headlined by
29HO14961 ARMITAGE – an early Man-O-Man son out of a Goldwyn dam and previous
ABS Primetime sire that provides a total package with milk volume (+1124 M),
components (+68F, +49P and +630NM$), health (2.71 SCS and +2.5PL) and fertility
(+1.3DPR). Add 5.1% Calving Ease and ARMITAGE is truly a complete package that
can be used across a herd.

Two JEEVES
sons follow closely the footsteps of ARMITAGE on the new graduate list.
29HO14802 JETTIE (JEEVES x SHOTTLE) and 29HO14684 GALLON (JEEVES x Goldwyn)
both excel in TPI and Milk, but more importantly, both sires are +2.8 DPR with
+5.5 PL or higher. With an extremely rare combination of high milk production,
longevity and fertility, these bulls are optimal for leaving high producing,
long-lived, and healthy daughters.

29HO14755
SHAQ (Leif x SHOTTLE x Rudolph x Blackstar) is a rare Leif son, unrelated to most of today’spopular sires. An excellent source of daughter fertility at +1.0 DPR, he also
adds +1300 Milk, and a low cell count at 2.69 SCSproviding dairy producers an appealing option
to use as outcross sire.

29HO14459
MUNGO (Mascol x ALTON x Capri x Manfred) is another outcross sire to provide
producers a unique sire stack without sacrificing milk production or
components. At 5.6% CE, MUNGO can be used across the herd and maintain
production values, consistent type and health and fitness traits.

Completing
the list of Holstein graduates are 29HO14592 HOWIE and 29HO14744 CONAN. HOWIE,
a Baxter x Potter son from a family long admired by U.S. AI companies, isfit for the type and longevity market, with
+2.58 PTAT, +2.74 UDC and +2.57 FLC. CONAN is a Goldwyn x SHOTTLE from the
Larcrest Cosmopolitan family, and is also a type specialist and outstanding
udder sire. CONAN can also improve milk components and is positive for DPR.

ABS adds
one Jersey to the lineup in 29JE3702 VERTEX. This Dale x Paramount son provides
an Impuls-free sire stack that combines two of the all-time great female
transmitters of milk production in the Jersey breed, Gratitude and Violet.
VERTEX is one of the highest PTA Milk bulls today with +2078 M, and has the
ability to increase total revenue through +123 lbs combined Fat and Protein.

To implement
any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS
representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD. Complete proof information on graduates
is available at www.absglobal.com.

Headquartered
in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine
genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing
in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of
animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a
division of Genus plc.

“The peaceful passing of SHOTTLE means we
have lost one of our industry’s most influential animals,” said Saskia Korink,
ABS Global Chief Operating Officer. “He has made a major impact on dairy
farming around the globe over the last 15 years and has become one of the
greatest ‘customer satisfaction’ bulls of all time.”

SHOTTLE was born at
Spot Acre Grange near Stafford, England—the home of the Pickford family and Picston
Holsteins. He was the son of dam Condon Aero Sharon EX-91 and sire Carole
Prelude Mtoto.

For seven straight
sire summary releases (January 2008 through January 2010) SHOTTLE sat at the
peak of the Top 100 TPI® list.After
those seven straight runs, he remained a top 15 sire for the next five sire
summaries. In December 2011, SHOTTLE became the 11th ABS sire to
achieve ‘millionaire’ status—with one million units of semen sold. When he
turned 12 he still out-performed bulls half his age—remaining in the top 25 of
the Top 100 TPI list. Even at the age of 15 and post-retirement, he continued
to be a tremendous improver of health traits and was over 1.20 for PTAT. He
continues to impact the Holstein USA Top 100 TPI list, with two sons and 28
maternal grandsons listed.

SHOTTLE leaves a long
list of offspring, including more than 100,000 daughters in 20,000 herds in 22
countries. Conservatively, those 100,000 SHOTTLE daughters have produced more
than five billion pounds (more than two billion litres) of milk to help nourish
the world.

ABS remains the
premier source for SHOTTLE influenced genetics—marketing conventional and sexed
semen from 17 direct sons and 27 maternal grandsons. Even after his passing, with
19 maternal grandsons awaiting proof information, SHOTTLE will continue to
influence the industry for years to come.

Not only was SHOTTLE
popular in the dairy and artificial insemination industries, but he received
enormous amounts of press coverage from all over the world early on in his
career. In addition to dairy trade publications, stories about SHOTTLE appeared
in numerous newspapers and magazines, including The Times of London and Daily
Mail. Perhaps the most notable was his feature in Playboy magazine—a feat no other bull at ABS Global has accomplished.

In his final months, while enjoying
retirement, SHOTTLE received superstar treatment—including the enjoyment of a
pen twice the size of his herd mates where he basked under heat lamps and got
regular exercise from the dedicated team of stockmen at the Ruthin stud in the
United Kingdom. All of us at ABS will miss SHOTTLE greatly, but look forward to
what his genetics and offspring continue to do for the dairy industry around
the world.

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A.,
ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of
bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies,
and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe,
ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its
founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

# # #

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/millionaire-and-world-famous-abs-sire-shottle-passes-away1Oldest Living ABS Bull Celebrates Golden Birthdayhttp://www.absglobal.com/oldest-living-abs-bull-celebrates-golden-birthday1Mon, 02 Mar 2015 06:00:00 GMTJan Francois MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 2, 2015)— ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, recently celebrated the 17th birthday of a veteran ABS bull—New Design 878. A Black Angus, born February 17, 1998, New Design 878 has been an impressive producer since he was a yearling. ]]> MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 2, 2015)— ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, recently celebrated the 17th birthday of a veteran ABS bull—New Design 878. A Black Angus, born February 17, 1998, New Design 878 has been an impressive producer since he was a yearling.

MADISON, Wis., U.S.A. (March 2, 2015)— ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, recently celebrated the 17th birthday of a veteran ABS bull—New Design 878. A Black Angus, born February 17, 1998, New Design 878 has been an impressive producer since he was a yearling.

At the turn of the year, 878’s production level approached 725,000 units, and he continues to rank in ABS’s top 20 bulls for beef semen sales in several regions across the globe. From 2003 through 2006, New Design 878 topped the registration charts as the number one sire for registrations in the Angus breed, still holds the single-year registration record with 10,190 calves registered in 2004, and ranks second (behind first place, another ABS bull, N Bar Emulation EXT) for total lifetime registrations with 52,978 calves through September 2014.

“We knew from the day 878 arrived at ABS that he was going to be a popular animal,” said Doug Frank, ABS Beef Product Manager. “He had a quick start and customers really liked his first calves—skyrocketing his popularity. He has since had a strong finish—continuing to offer the highest accuracy multi-trait proof in the industry.”

“At a healthy 17 years of age, 878 is proof that solid genes and great care are key to the performance and longevity of the animals,” said Brian McCulloh and Dan Borgen, Woodhill Farms, part owners of the bull. “As producers out in the field every day, we see firsthand that the way we care for our animals directly impacts how they grow and perform. ABS has this figured out and it only takes one look at their facilities and their animals for living proof of the great care their animals receive.

Despite his age, New Design 878 continues to hit the list of American Angus Association’s Pathfinders®—holding the top slot for five years from 2008-2012 and remaining #12 today. 878’s maternal influence will likely be his most important legacy with 16,630 daughters on record weaning 55,543 calves and continuing to pass along his phenomenal genes.

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

# # #

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/oldest-living-abs-bull-celebrates-golden-birthday1ABS Global to Acquire 51% of In Vitro Brazil, the World’s Leading Commercial Provider of Bovine In-Vitro Fertilization Technologyhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-to-acquire-51-of-in-vitro-brazil-the-worlds-leading-commercial-provider-of-bovine-in-vitro-fertilization-technology1Wed, 18 Feb 2015 22:30:00 GMTJan FrancoisMADISON, Wisconsin, U.S.A. (February 16th, 2015) -- ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, today announces that it has signed an agreement for the acquisition of 51% of In Vitro Brasil S.A. (IVB®). ]]>MADISON, Wisconsin, U.S.A. (February 16th, 2015) -- ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, today announces that it has signed an agreement for the acquisition of 51% of In Vitro Brasil S.A. (IVB®). MADISON, Wisconsin, U.S.A. (February 16th, 2015) -- ABS® Global, Inc., the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services, and artificial insemination technologies, today announces that it has signed an agreement for the acquisition of 51% of In Vitro Brasil S.A. (IVB®). IVB is a leading biotechnology company focused on the production of bovine embryos through in-vitro fertilization (IVF). IVB is based in Brazil and operates in 13 countries, including the United States, Colombia, and Uruguay.

This transaction strengthens ABS’s global leadership in the development and delivery of differentiated bovine genetics through the introduction of IVF technology. With ABS’s support and established global presence, IVB will be well-positioned to meet the growing demand for IVF in the dairy and beef industries—enabling farmers to accelerate genetic improvement in their herds. “This partnership allows us to offer our customers a comprehensive genetic solution with real world economic benefits,” said Saskia Korink, ABS Chief Operating Officer.

“The acquisition of IVB provides ABS with a significant opportunity to accelerate the rate of genetic improvement we are able to offer our customers,” said Karim Bitar, Genus Chief Executive Officer.

“IVF technology has made huge steps over the last decade and I am truly excited in the opportunities it can bring to our customers in a commercial environment. This technological expertise will help us drive genetic gain with the resultant positive impact this will have on customer profitability,” said Richard Williams, ABS’s North America General Manager.

IVB was established in 2002 by José Henrique F. Pontes, currently CEO of IVB, to meet the need for bovine IVF technology from commercial dairy and beef producers in Brazil. Today, IVB is the primary commercial provider of bovine IVF embryos with a leading presence in Brazil, the globe’s largest bovine IVF market, and a growing presence in other Latin American countries and the United States.

“This transaction combines the world’s leading bovine IVF technology company with the premier bovine genetics company,” said Jose Henrique—who will continue as CEO of IVB within ABS. “We share common values in being pioneers in the industry with a strong focus on translating technical capability into value for customers.”

About ABS
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global, Inc. is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

About IVBIn Vitro Brasil S.A. is the world’s leading provider of in-vitro fertilization and associated services to the livestock industry. IVB was founded in 2002 to meet the growing demand for bovine embryos. IVB is headquartered in Mogi Mirim, São Paulo state, Brazil, and operates through wholly owned labs, joint ventures, and franchise agreements.

# # #

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-to-acquire-51-of-in-vitro-brazil-the-worlds-leading-commercial-provider-of-bovine-in-vitro-fertilization-technology1World-famous ABS sire retires after phenomenal careerhttp://www.absglobal.com/world-famous-abs-sire-retires-after-phenomenal-career1Wed, 31 Dec 2014 06:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisAfter an extraordinary fifteen year career at ABS Global Inc., the decision was made to retire 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE from the active bull lineup. He leaves behind a significant legacy after producing 1,174,948 units. SHOTTLE had a major influence over the Holstein breed as an icon for dairy farmers around the globe. ]]>After an extraordinary fifteen year career at ABS Global Inc., the decision was made to retire 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE from the active bull lineup. He leaves behind a significant legacy after producing 1,174,948 units. SHOTTLE had a major influence over the Holstein breed as an icon for dairy farmers around the globe. After an extraordinary fifteen year career at ABS Global Inc., the decision was made to retire 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE from the active bull lineup. He leaves behind a significant legacy after producing 1,174,948 units.

SHOTTLE had a major influence over the Holstein breed as an icon for dairy farmers around the globe. “SHOTTLE captivated the dairy and AI industries for more than a decade, with strong characteristics such as semen fertility, production, low somatic cell counts, consistently pleasing type, and fantastic temperament. These traits assisted him in becoming one of the greatest ‘customer satisfaction’ bulls of all time,” explained Mark Smith, ABS global production director, at a birthday celebration for SHOTTLE in July, 2014.

SHOTTLE was born at Spot Acre Grange near Stafford, England, the home of the Pickford family and Picston Holsteins. He was the son of dam Condon Aero Sharon EX-91 and sire Carole Prelude Mtoto.

For seven straight sire summary releases -- January 2008 to January 2010 -- SHOTTLE sat at the peak of the Top 100 TPI® list. After those seven straight runs, he remained a top 15 sire for the next five sire summaries. In December 2011, SHOTTLE became the 11th ABS sire to achieve “millionaire” status, with one million units of semen sold. When he turned 12, he still out-performed bulls half his age, remaining in the top 25 of the Top 100 TPI list. Even at age fifteen, SHOTTLE remains relevant, boasting a TPI above +1900. He continues to be a tremendous improver of health traits, and is over 1.2 for type. Today, he still impacts the Holstein USA Top 100 TPI list, with two sons and 28 maternal grandsons listed.

Currently, in his official Interbull proof, he has 100,000 daughters in 20,000 herds in 22 countries. Conservatively, those 100,000 SHOTTLE daughters have produced more than five billion pounds (over two billion litres) of milk to help nourish the world.

ABS remains the premier source for SHOTTLE influenced genetics, marketing conventional and sexed semen from 17 direct sons and 27 maternal grandsons. With 19 maternal grandsons awaiting proof information, SHOTTLE will continue to influence the industry for years to come.

Not only was SHOTTLE popular in the dairy and AI industries, but he received enormous amounts of press coverage from all over the world early on in his career. In addition to dairy trade publications, stories about SHOTTLE appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines, including The Times of London and Daily Mail. Perhaps the most notable was his feature in Playboy magazine, a feat no other bull at ABS Global has accomplished.

Throughout his retirement, SHOTTLE can expect superstar treatment including the enjoyment of a pen twice the size of his herd mates where he can bask under heat lamps and get regular exercise from the dedicated team of stockmen at the Ruthin stud in the United Kingdom. Please join us in wishing SHOTTLE a long and healthy retirement.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/world-famous-abs-sire-retires-after-phenomenal-career1ABS graduates 12 bulls In December 2014http://www.absglobal.com/abs-graduates-12-bulls-in-december-20141Wed, 31 Dec 2014 06:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisWith an outstanding December 2014 proof run, ABS graduated 12 new bulls to join the influential ABS sire lineup. Leading this class of graduates is 29HO16200 MESSIAH, a +2265 TPI® Freddie son that will turn heads. MESSIAH will share the stage with 29HO14142 DORCY, who has proven himself once again by securing number 8 in the TPI® top 10. ]]>With an outstanding December 2014 proof run, ABS graduated 12 new bulls to join the influential ABS sire lineup. Leading this class of graduates is 29HO16200 MESSIAH, a +2265 TPI® Freddie son that will turn heads. MESSIAH will share the stage with 29HO14142 DORCY, who has proven himself once again by securing number 8 in the TPI® top 10.

With an outstanding December 2014 proof run, ABS graduated 12 new bulls to join the influential ABS sire lineup. Leading this class of graduates is 29HO16200 MESSIAH, a +2265 TPI® Freddie son that will turn heads. MESSIAH will share the stage with 29HO14142 DORCY, who has proven himself once again by securing number 8 in the TPI® top 10. The TPI® Top 10 is a place he has known since his graduation in August 2012. ABS also graduated their first DORCY son, 29HO16078 DOMINIC.

Additional highlights:

Daughter-proven Holsteins
MESSIAH and BINGO lead the way in an elite group of graduates. 29HO16200 MESSIAH is looking to be a high-demand sire with solid production (+1100 M), feet and legs (+2.24) and high-ranking TPI (+2265). 29HO14992 BINGO is a Planet x O Man son with tremendous milk (+1504 PTAM), productive life (+3.8) and the ability to reduce frame size for more efficient cows.

ABS also graduated two new bulls from outcross pedigrees. 29HO16160 CASTLE is a Bowser x Offroad son with outstanding fertility (+2.9 DPR), excellent health traits (+3.3 PL), and solid calving ease (6.4%). 29HO16102 CASPER is a Bogart x BOLTON son which spells profitability with +438 NM$ and the ability to improve fat and protein. CASPER is also a calving ease specialist (5.9% SCE) that adds herd life (+2.4 PL).

If producers are looking for a DORCY son to improve type and udders, they should look no further than 29HO16078 DOMINIC. DOMINIC is from an extensive AI family including SHOUT, DODGE, SHELDON and SHIMMER which have all stood in the ABS barns. His daughters will have outstanding rear udder height and width with excellent fore-udder attachments (+2.26 UDC).

Primetime Genomic Holsteins
On top of the exciting new additions to the daughter-proven lineup, ABS Primetime™ genomic bulls SILVER and BOASTFUL demonstrated significant improvement to their already-sky-high genomic proofs. 29HO17573 SILVER (+2683 GTPI®) and 29HO17607 BOASTFUL (+2600 GTPI) are two of the highest-ranked, readily available bulls for GTPI in the entire dairy genetics industry. SILVER, a Mogul x Snowman son also excels in lifetime profit (+821 NM$ and +840 CM$). BOASTFUL, a Supersire x Man O Man, is a tremendous sire for production and health traits (+0.15% PTAF, +0.09% PTAP, 6.1% SCE, +5.9 PL, and +2.6 DPR).

Daughter-proven Jerseys
The December sire summary proved to be an incredible victory again for the ABS Jersey program. 29JE3762 VOLCANO, an August 2014 graduate from the Primetime lineup, continued to exceed all expectations as he improved to +657 NM$ in the face of a base change and NM$ reformulation. 29JE3768 DAYBREAK joins the elite company of VOLCANO as the newest Jersey graduate. DAYBREAK, from the heart of the Violet cow family is set to improve fat and protein yield and sires hard working cows with strong lifetime profit (+501 NM$).

Primetime Genomic Jerseys
ABS is proud to offer high-ranking young Jersey bulls, including VOLCANO son 29JE3866 HARRIS. This JPI™ all-star (+262), has exciting production and components (+1744 PTAM and +120 CFP) with longevity (+6.7 PL). Another sire to watch for is 29JE3927 WALTER, a HILARIO x Valentino son that is a CM$ specialist (+576), with outstanding components and productive life (+5.5) for cows that stand the test of time.

For more information on these and additional December graduates, visit the ABS website at www.absglobal.com.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

###

TPI® and GTPI® are registered trademarks of Holstein Association USA, Inc.
JPI™ is a registered trademark of American Jersey Cattle Association.
Primetime™ is a trademark of ABS Global, Inc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-graduates-12-bulls-in-december-20141Kenny Wells joins ABS Global as the new beef genetic nucleus managerhttp://www.absglobal.com/kenny-wells-joins-abs-global-as-the-new-beef-genetic-nucleus-manager1Thu, 30 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMTVernon MeierKenny Wells has joined ABS Global, Inc., as the beef genetic nucleus manager. In this newly created position, he will manage the genetic nucleus herd, and work with the ABS beef product development group and supply chain teams to deliver proprietary genetics in line with the company’s overall beef strategy. Prior to joining ABS, Wells managed the Jackson Agricultural Research Station for The Ohio State University. ]]>Kenny Wells has joined ABS Global, Inc., as the beef genetic nucleus manager. In this newly created position, he will manage the genetic nucleus herd, and work with the ABS beef product development group and supply chain teams to deliver proprietary genetics in line with the company’s overall beef strategy. Prior to joining ABS, Wells managed the Jackson Agricultural Research Station for The Ohio State University. Kenny Wells has joined ABS Global, Inc., as the beef genetic nucleus manager. In this newly created position, he will manage the genetic nucleus herd, and work with the ABS beef product development group and supply chain teams to deliver proprietary genetics in line with the company’s overall beef strategy.
Prior to joining ABS, Wells managed the Jackson Agricultural Research Station for The Ohio State University. He also served as an Extension beef academic specialist at Michigan State University, and held graduate research assistant positions in beef cattle production and reproduction. He holds a master of science from Washington State University, and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from The Ohio State University.
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/kenny-wells-joins-abs-global-as-the-new-beef-genetic-nucleus-manager1ABS seeks to open the market for sexed bovine semen technologyhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-seeks-to-open-the-market-for-sexed-bovine-semen-technology1Fri, 19 Sep 2014 21:00:00 GMTVernon Meier ABS Global, Inc., a world leader in bovine genetics, confirms the filing of legal proceedings against Inguran LLC (doing business as Sexing Technologies, or "ST"), alleging that ST has acquired and maintained a monopoly in processing sexed bovine semen through anti-competitive and exclusionary conduct, in breach of various U.S. state and federal competition statutes. These proceedings were filed on July 14 in the U.S. ]]> ABS Global, Inc., a world leader in bovine genetics, confirms the filing of legal proceedings against Inguran LLC (doing business as Sexing Technologies, or "ST"), alleging that ST has acquired and maintained a monopoly in processing sexed bovine semen through anti-competitive and exclusionary conduct, in breach of various U.S. state and federal competition statutes. These proceedings were filed on July 14 in the U.S.

ABS Global, Inc., a world leader in bovine genetics, confirms the filing of legal proceedings against Inguran LLC (doing business as Sexing Technologies, or "ST"), alleging that ST has acquired and maintained a monopoly in processing sexed bovine semen through anti-competitive and exclusionary conduct, in breach of various U.S. state and federal competition statutes. These proceedings were filed on July 14 in the U.S. District Court in the Western District of Wisconsin.
“ST’s practices not only limit choices for genetics and artificial insemination companies, but more importantly, they inhibit scientific progress important to our dairy and beef customers,” says Jesus Martinez, ABS global director of business development. “We believe it is in the interests of both ABS and the whole bovine genetics industry to have free and fair competition in the market for processing sexed bovine semen.”
The legal proceedings arise around technologies used to process bull semen into products which farmers use to increase the likelihood of gender specific offspring.
The ABS proceedings allege that ST has acquired and maintained a monopoly for its technology through unlawful contractual provisions that lock up potential customers and limit research on alternative technologies. ABS also filed an Inter Partes Review (IPR) petition before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, challenging the validity of one of ST’s patents. The IPR also was filed on July 14.
ABS and ST entered a semen sorting agreement in September 2012 for the processing of raw bovine ejaculate to produce sexed bovine semen. Given ST’s monopoly position, ST imposed onerous provisions in the contract, which ABS contends are unlawful. ABS has notified ST that this agreement will not extend beyond August 2017.
On September 3, ST filed separate proceedings against ABS in Houston, Texas, seeking declarations from the court on the enforceability of certain provisions of the semen sorting agreement and alleging that ABS had fraudulently induced ST to enter into the agreement. ABS strongly disputes ST’s claims and has moved to dismiss these allegations and transfer the matter to Wisconsin.
ABS believes the Wisconsin proceedings will allow it and, potentially, other third parties to enter and compete in the market for processing sexed bovine semen through the launch of competing technologies. For some time, ABS has been developing its own sexed semen technology and has recently completed successful field trials for this technology.
Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-seeks-to-open-the-market-for-sexed-bovine-semen-technology1ABS new graduates part of robust genetics pipelinehttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-new-graduates-part-of-robust-genetics-pipeline1Fri, 15 Aug 2014 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisWith an excellent August 2014 proof run, ABS has graduated 24 new bulls that will join elite company led by DORCY – the number two proven TPI sire at +2352. 29HO14142 DORCY continues to excel and improve each sire run, and leads the ABS pack with credits that include +1907 PTAM, over +3.00 PTAT, UDC and FLC, and +702 NM$. “The graduates we added to our August lineup show the strength of our genetic offering and our robust genetics pipeline,” says Kris Scott, ABS global dairy brand m...]]>With an excellent August 2014 proof run, ABS has graduated 24 new bulls that will join elite company led by DORCY – the number two proven TPI sire at +2352. 29HO14142 DORCY continues to excel and improve each sire run, and leads the ABS pack with credits that include +1907 PTAM, over +3.00 PTAT, UDC and FLC, and +702 NM$. “The graduates we added to our August lineup show the strength of our genetic offering and our robust genetics pipeline,” says Kris Scott, ABS global dairy brand m...
With an excellent August 2014 proof run, ABS has graduated 24 new bulls that
will join elite company led by DORCY – the number two proven TPI sire at +2352.
29HO14142 DORCY continues to excel and improve each sire run, and leads the ABS
pack with credits that include +1907 PTAM, over +3.00 PTAT, UDC and FLC, and +702
NM$.

“The graduates we added to our August lineup show
the strength of our genetic offering and our robust genetics pipeline,” says
Kris Scott, ABS global dairy brand manager.“At ABS, we recognize that the needs and expectations of our customers are
ever increasing, and the recent graduates demonstrate how our lineup is taking
dairy genetics to new levels.”

Additional
daughter-proven graduatesThree
of the new graduates, LARGE, PLUMBER, and BEAU are former ABS Primetime
standouts. 29HO16090 LARGE (Super x SHOTTLE) is elite for TPI (+2256), type (+3.06
PTAT), and udders (+3.08). His early daughters are living up to the promise of
his lofty genomic predictions.

Another
group of graduates are from familiar faces to the ABS family. Holstein breeders
that had success with popular Rock Solid Genetics Diamond sire, 29HO13366
BEACON, should consider 29HO14976 FRANCHISE - an early Freddie son from a full
sister to BEACON that sires high, wide rear udders and excellent fertility
(+1.30 DPR).

Also
graduating are full brothers 29HO14821 PAMPA and 29HO14825 PICARDUS, Planet
sons from the world-renown Rudolph Missy family at Pine-Tree. Like his brother,
PAMPA sires daughters that excel in producing high levels of fat and protein
(+130 CFP). PICARDUS is an international superstar and future sire of sons with
extreme production (+2416 M) and components (+72 P and +76 F).

Type-focused
breeders can look to top ten PTAT sire (+3.68 PTAT and +3.00 UDC) 94HO14912
EMBASSY – a new addition from St. Jacobs ABC. This Sanchez son from Golden Erin,
an EX-90 GMD DOM, hails from a tremendous family known for its ability to
transmit breed-leading type.

Primetime
genomic Holsteins

On top
of the exciting new additions to the daughter-proven lineup, ABS Primetime
genomic bulls SILVER and MONTEREY are making headlines of their own. 29HO17573 SILVER
(+2621 GTPI) and 29HO16955 MONTEREY (+2600 GTPI) are two of the highest-ranked,
readily available bulls for GTPI in the entire industry. SILVER, a Mogul x
Snowman son also excels in lifetime profit (+949 NM$ and +1019 CM$), and MONTEREY,
a McCutchen x Robust, is a tremendous type sire (+3.71 PTAT and +3.53 UDC) in
his own right. Both of these young bulls provide producers the opportunity to
reach new heights in their genetic programs.

Daughter-proven
Jerseys

The
ABS Jersey lineup once again leads the breed in JPI with full brothers VOLCANO
and VISIONARY both graduating from the Primetime lineup. These LEGAL x
Paramount sons provide lifetime profit through daughters with remarkable
production and longevity, from quality udders. 29JE3762 VOLCANO has a
remarkable JPI at (+265) and transmits tremendous production (+2020 M). 29JE3761
VISIONARY’s daughters are confirming his elite genomic predictions (+249 JPI)
and outstanding production and udder quality (+1700 M and 3.83 JUI).

Primetime
genomic Jerseys

A

BS leads the way, with 29JE3866 HARRIS (+283 JPI)
ranking first among all available genomic sires.At +2,064 PTAM, this exciting VOLCANO son is
a production star (+79 F and +69 P) with great udders and strong fitness traits
(+5.7 PL).29JE3915 HECTOR (+259 JPI) is
a JUPITER son with +156 pounds of combined fat and protein.29JE3927 WALTER (+249 JPI) is a HILARIO son
at +5.05 JUI that completes this diverse trio of elite genomic sires.

For
more information on these and additional August graduates, visit the ABS
website at www.absglobal.com.

Headquartered
in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine
genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products.
Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the
forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941.
ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-new-graduates-part-of-robust-genetics-pipeline1Most influential ABS sire of all time celebrates 15th birthdayhttp://www.absglobal.com/most-influential-abs-sire-of-all-time-celebrates-15th-birthday1Wed, 23 Jul 2014 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisThe most influential ABS Global, Inc. Holstein sire of all time, 29HO12209 SHOTTLE EX-96, celebrates his 15th birthday on July 23rd. “SHOTTLE captivated the dairy and AI industries for more than a decade, with strong characteristics such as semen fertility, production, low somatic cell counts, consistent type and fantastic temperament. These traits assisted him in becoming one of the greatest ‘customer satisfaction’ bulls of all time,” Mark Smith, ABS global production director, expl...]]>The most influential ABS Global, Inc. Holstein sire of all time, 29HO12209 SHOTTLE EX-96, celebrates his 15th birthday on July 23rd. “SHOTTLE captivated the dairy and AI industries for more than a decade, with strong characteristics such as semen fertility, production, low somatic cell counts, consistent type and fantastic temperament. These traits assisted him in becoming one of the greatest ‘customer satisfaction’ bulls of all time,” Mark Smith, ABS global production director, expl...

The most influential ABS Global, Inc. Holstein sire of all time, 29HO12209 SHOTTLE EX-96, celebrates his 15th birthday on July 23rd.

“SHOTTLE captivated the dairy and AI industries for more than a decade, with strong characteristics such as semen fertility, production, low somatic cell counts, consistent type and fantastic temperament. These traits assisted him in becoming one of the greatest ‘customer satisfaction’ bulls of all time,” Mark Smith, ABS global production director, explained during a recent birthday celebration for SHOTTLE at ABS Global.

According to Smith, who was responsible for the company’s breeding program in the United Kingdom at the time, SHOTTLE was born at Spot Acre Grange near Stafford, England, the home of the Pickford family and Picston Holsteins. He was the son of dam Condon Aero Sharon EX-91 and sire Carole Prelude Mtoto.

Former Genus ABS sire analyst, Louise Pickford, identified SHOTTLE for the company. He was brought into the Cornerstone progeny testing program, and began his illustrious career after he graduated in May 2004.

For seven straight sire summary releases -- January 2008 to January 2010 -- SHOTTLE sat at the peak of the Top 100 TPI list. After those seven straight runs, he remained a top 15 sire for the next five sire summaries. In December 2011, SHOTTLE became the 11th ABS sire to achieve “millionaire” status, with one million units of semen sold. When he turned 12, he still out-performed bulls half his age, remaining in the top 25 of the Top 100 TPI list.

Despite his age, SHOTTLE remains in great physical shape and has the same quiet temperament seen in his daughters. This makes him an obvious favorite for the team that has taken care of him for all his years at ABS, says Smith.

“Not only was SHOTTLE popular in the dairy and AI industries, but he received enormous amounts of press coverage from all over the world early on in his career,” says Smith, “In addition to dairy trade publications, stories about SHOTTLE appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines, including the Times of London and Daily Mail. Perhaps the most notable was his feature in Playboy magazine, a feat no other bull at ABS Global has accomplished.”

Over the years, 1.1 million units of SHOTTLE semen have been sold worldwide. Currently in his official Interbull proof, he has 99,954 daughters in 19,000 herds in 22 countries.

Conservatively, those 99,954 SHOTTLE daughters have produced more than five billion pounds of milk – which translates to about 581 million gallons, or 2.25 billion liters. SHOTTLE daughters have contributed to nourishing the world, as their combined lifetime milk production equals more than 115,000 tanker loads, totaling over 9.3 billion cartons of milk!

Even at age 15, SHOTTLE remains relevant, boasting a TPI above +1900. He continues to be a tremendous improver of health traits, and is over 2.0 for type. Today, he still impacts the Holstein USA Top 100 TPI list, with three sons and 14 maternal grandsons listed.

ABS remains the premier source for SHOTTLE influenced genetics, marketing conventional and sexed semen from 17 direct sons and 29 maternal grandsons. With 27 maternal grandsons awaiting proof information, SHOTTLE will continue to influence the industry for years to come.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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Editor’s Notes:

TPI® is a trademark of the National Holstein Association USA, Inc.

ABS Cornerstone® is a registered trademark of ABS Global, Inc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/most-influential-abs-sire-of-all-time-celebrates-15th-birthday1Jersey popularity increases, as ABS Global sales top one million unitshttp://www.absglobal.com/jersey-popularity-increases-as-abs-global-sales-top-one-million-units1Wed, 23 Jul 2014 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisAs the popularity of the Jersey breed continues to rise, ABS Global, Inc., reached a major milestone of selling one million Jersey units in a fiscal year for the first time. The company’s fiscal year ended in June. Jerseys are gaining in popularity compared with other breeds because they are smaller and more feed efficient, calve sooner and more often, and have higher levels of fat and protein in their milk. Customers also prize Jerseys because of their genetic capabilities for calvi...]]>As the popularity of the Jersey breed continues to rise, ABS Global, Inc., reached a major milestone of selling one million Jersey units in a fiscal year for the first time. The company’s fiscal year ended in June. Jerseys are gaining in popularity compared with other breeds because they are smaller and more feed efficient, calve sooner and more often, and have higher levels of fat and protein in their milk. Customers also prize Jerseys because of their genetic capabilities for calvi...As the popularity of the Jersey breed continues to rise, ABS Global, Inc., reached a major milestone of selling one million Jersey units in a fiscal year for the first time. The company’s fiscal year ended in June.

Jerseys are gaining in popularity compared with other breeds because they are smaller and more feed efficient, calve sooner and more often, and have higher levels of fat and protein in their milk. Customers also prize Jerseys because of their genetic capabilities for calving ease, high fertility, and the opportunity to crossbreed in dairy and beef cattle.

Aaron Horst, the ABS Jersey sire analyst says ABS Global Jersey bulls are known to customers for their genetic capabilities: “Our customers continue to show their appreciation for genetics that result in high-value milk from low maintenance cows with good udders. Bulls such as 29JE3506 LEGAL, 29JE3576 PREMIER, and 29JE3624 VERNON have been important to our program’s growth. 29JE3866 HARRIS, and 29JE3870 NIKON-P have expanded popularity for our Primetime lineup. We look forward to 29JE3761 VISIONARY and 29JE3762 VOLCANO receiving daughter’s proofs. New 29JE3791 HILARIO sons, such as 29JE3927 WALTER, will continue to provide our customers the Jersey genetics they seek from diverse pedigrees.”

“As the world leader in bovine genetics, ABS is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of our customers and the dairy industry. We feel the Jersey breed will continue to grow due to its feed and reproductive efficiency, as well as the global push for milk components,” says Kris Scott, ABS global dairy brand manager.

“The million unit milestone is a key indication ABS is aligned with the genetic goals of our customers,” he continues. “We will continue to provide the most sought-after Jersey genetics that meet the needs of our customers today and in the future.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/jersey-popularity-increases-as-abs-global-sales-top-one-million-units1Dairy breeding programs may help keep beef affordablehttp://www.absglobal.com/dairy-breeding-programs-may-help-keep-beef-affordable1Thu, 19 Jun 2014 05:00:00 GMTJan FrancoisWith beef in short supply and prices rising drastically, the beef industry is starting to get a little help … from the dairy industry, according to Richard Williams, ABS Global general manager for North America. “Quality beef crossbreds from dairy cows offer benefits throughout the supply chain, from dairy farmers, to beef cattle feeders, meat processors, retailers and consumers,” said Williams, while speaking at the 67th Reciprocal Meat Conference. The American Meat Science As...]]>With beef in short supply and prices rising drastically, the beef industry is starting to get a little help … from the dairy industry, according to Richard Williams, ABS Global general manager for North America. “Quality beef crossbreds from dairy cows offer benefits throughout the supply chain, from dairy farmers, to beef cattle feeders, meat processors, retailers and consumers,” said Williams, while speaking at the 67th Reciprocal Meat Conference. The American Meat Science As...With beef in short supply and prices rising drastically, the beef industry is starting to get a little help … from the dairy industry, according to Richard Williams, ABS Global general manager for North America.

“Quality beef crossbreds from dairy cows offer benefits throughout the supply chain, from dairy farmers, to beef cattle feeders, meat processors, retailers and consumers,” said Williams, while speaking at the 67th Reciprocal Meat Conference. The American Meat Science Association conference brings together commercial, academic and government segments of the meat industry. This year's event celebrates the 50th anniversary of the formal incorporation of AMSA, which was founded at the University of Wisconsin - Madison.

“Demand for beef is outpacing supply, and all indications point to beef prices remaining high,” said Williams. According to the USDA, the U.S. beef calf crop has declined in 14 of the last 16 years, from a high of more than 35 million in 1996, to less than 30 million in 2012.

“Because of drastic reductions in the beef cow herd, dairy cattle bred to beef bulls may help offset shortages in the beef supply chain. Dairy cull cows and bull calves have long found their way into the beef supply chain. Now, quality beef crosses from dairy cows are hitting the market and proving they can compete for growth, efficiency and quality with conventional beef product,” he added.

Since 2002, the number of dairy herds has fallen by 27 percent, to 47,000, but milk per cow has increased by 17 percent, to 21,822 pounds per year. The increases can be attributed to several factors, including genetic improvement, animal health practices and better feeding.

However, volatility in the marketplace has focused more dairy farmers on profitability than ever before. Cash flow and working capital have become more important metrics following an extreme downturn in 2008/09, and again in 2012, when a nationwide drought drove feed prices to levels that drove many dairies out of business.

In the U.S., more than 70 percent of dairy cattle are bred through artificial insemination, mostly with genetics from within dairy breeds. Typically, they produce a 50/50 mix of male and female offspring. Only a small proportion of female offspring are needed as replacements for aging milk cows, with the remainder raised for beef.

However, dairy breeds typically lack many of the physical qualities desirable in beef animals. Dairy breed calves being channeled into the beef supply chain were often sold at low prices, sometimes even at a financial loss.

Technologies such as sorted semen, which results in about 90 percent female offspring, now are being used to breed the best dairy cows to provide replacements.

“Breeding the remaining animals with beef bulls results in offspring with better beef characteristics. There is a significant incremental value opportunity by cross-breeding dairy cows with elite beef genetics,” said Williams.

For dairy operations, this management practice brings both animal welfare and economic benefits. Calving is easier; calves are healthier; and the resulting offspring from cross-breeding bring higher value in the marketplace. Also, breeding the very best cows using sorted semen can create more rapid genetic improvement within dairy herds.

Beef cattle feeders benefit by having cattle with faster growth and a more desirable consumer product. They also have a more consistent, year-round supply of animals, and improved supply chain traceability.

ABS is helping both the dairy and beef segments through its InFocus program. ABS Dairy InFocus involves the strategic use of proven beef sires on dairy cows within a comprehensive breeding plan. InFocus enables dairies to increase cash flow and improve future herd genetics. Lower performing cows are bred to beef and calves are sold at a premium. Top-performing cows are used for more desirable heifer replacements. ABS has regional relationships with calf growers and feedlots looking to buy InFocus calves at premium prices over the dairy bull-calf market.

Meat processors also benefit from year-round availability, traceability, and a better yield of meat from high-value cuts than what would come from typical dairy animals.

“Ultimately, retailers and consumers benefit,” said Williams. “They’re getting great dairy and beef products, and the added supply helps to keep prices in check.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and udder care products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

DEFOREST, Wis. – In a solid December sire summary run, DORCY tops the official Holstein USA Top 100 TPISM List and ABS Global graduates seven Holstein and three Jersey sires to an already outstanding lineup.

BOLTON son 29HO14142 DORCY only continues to improve with age, as his breed-leading TPI reached +2267 this December. His combination of outstanding type and production make him a viable option for producers around the globe, as he utilizes +1600 Milk in addition to +3.00 PTAT to make daughters fun to look at that are ready to go to work.

A group of solid udder and production sires from proven ABS genetics lead the new graduate list. 29HO14627 SOTO is a JET STREAM x SHOTTLE son that yields high producing daughters at +1582 Milk with outstanding fat tests. A solid TPI sire with +2141, SOTO uses his ABS sire stack to make youthful, well attached udders from tall frame cows.

An Active x SHOTTLE son, 29HO14733 SHERAC enters the lineup with +2125 TPI. This +2.38 PTAT sire excels in calving ease at 6.1%, and with +2.1 DPR his resume shows daughters that excel across the board with solid production from great mammary systems.

29HO14748 GELDON (JEEVES x BOLIVER) and 29HO14487 SHANNON (BOLIVER x SHOTTLE) complete the conventional graduate lineup, and bring tall, strong cows with quality udders to the table. GELDON hails from the same family as ABS proven sires GARRETT and GERARD from Schillview Holsteins, and is a true feet and leg specialist. SHANNON’s sire stack of BOLIVER x SHOTTLE needs no introduction, as he is a tremendous udder and production improver that increases longevity, fertility and milk quality.

ABS continues to build on its offering of Sexation® sires, and adds three Sexation exclusive bulls to the list this December. 529HO14768 JIVES is a son of the original longevity king JEEVES and a popular ABS Primetime® bull that has surpassed expectations. At +2051 TPI, JIVES will produce trouble free cows with great locomotion and well-attached udders. A low SCS (2.62) and good DPR (+1.6) add to an impressive list of health traits.

Also graduating as a Sexation exclusive sire is 529HO14660 AYERS. This Planet x SHOTTLE son produces strong, open cows with good dairy form and great udders. Finally, 529HO14586 BENTON is a Mascol x BOLIVER that provides smaller framed cows with above average production and solid mammary systems that are ideal for commercial operations.

The ABS Jersey lineup expands with the addition of 29JE3756 PREMIER and 29JE3691 TERRY. PREMIER is the Impuls x Jace son backed by three dams averaging 93.3 points. He was a popular ABS Primetime bull that is making fancy daughters that excel in components, DPR and productive life. TERRY is a Gannon-PR x Impuls that can add size and strength from a high producing family with outstanding longevity.

“Now more than ever, ABS has the strength and diversity in an impressive lineup of sires that can fulfill any producer need or goal,” stated Wayne DeBuhr, dairy brand manager for ABS North America. “ABS continues to offer genetics that will increase producers’ bottom line no matter their breeding goal.”

To implement any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/dorcy-1-tpi-bull-in-the-world1ABS JERSEY BULL WINS FOURTH CONSECUTIVE PREMIER PERFORMANCE SIRE AWARDhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-jersey-bull-wins-fourth-consecutive-premier-performance-sire-award1Fri, 15 Nov 2013 06:00:00 GMTRobert GiblinFor the fourth consecutive year, 29JE3301 IATOLA earned the Premier Performance Sire Award, presented Nov. 11 at the 61st All American Jersey Show, held in Louisville, Ky. Since the American Jersey Cattle Association introduced the award in 1975, IATOLA is only the second bull to receive the title four times, and the first to receive it in each of four consecutive years. ]]>For the fourth consecutive year, 29JE3301 IATOLA earned the Premier Performance Sire Award, presented Nov. 11 at the 61st All American Jersey Show, held in Louisville, Ky. Since the American Jersey Cattle Association introduced the award in 1975, IATOLA is only the second bull to receive the title four times, and the first to receive it in each of four consecutive years.

For the fourth consecutive year, 29JE3301 IATOLA earned the Premier Performance Sire Award, presented Nov. 11 at the 61st All American Jersey Show, held in Louisville, Ky.

Since the American Jersey Cattle Association introduced the award in 1975, IATOLA is only the second bull to receive the title four times, and the first to receive it in each of four consecutive years.

“Winning this award requires much more than show ring success alone,” says Larry Schirm, ABS strategic account manager. “It also requires the winner’s daughters perform in additional areas important to economic success.”

This award recognizes the bull accumulating the most points on at least two, but not more than six, daughters shown. The award is based on four criteria: 50 percent on daughter placings, 25 percent on the sire’s Jersey Performance Index, and 25 percent on production-based daughter yield deviations as calculated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory.

“Cows can be bred for milk production, cheese yield, and other factors such as type, reproduction and longevity,” continues Schirm. “With four years of winning this award, IATOLA has shown that his daughters have consistently performed in the show ring, while excelling for traits crucial to profitability, such as production, longevity and type.”

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-jersey-bull-wins-fourth-consecutive-premier-performance-sire-award1ABS GLOBAL, INC. BUILDS NEW BULL HOUSING FACILITIES IN CANADAhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-inc-builds-new-bull-housing-facilities-in-canada1Mon, 11 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMTJordan SimonsonABS Global, Inc. has updated its Canadian facilities to maximize product supply stability for its global customers. “We look forward to using the updated Canadian facilities to continue providing our customers unparalleled product,” said Daniel Hodgkin, production manager for ABS Canada. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. has updated its Canadian facilities to maximize product supply stability for its global customers. “We look forward to using the updated Canadian facilities to continue providing our customers unparalleled product,” said Daniel Hodgkin, production manager for ABS Canada.

ABS Global, Inc. has updated its Canadian facilities to maximize product supply stability for its global customers.

“We look forward to using the updated Canadian facilities to continue providing our customers unparalleled product,” said Daniel Hodgkin, production manager for ABS Canada. “The new facilities will allow an improved environment for bulls and employees while providing another avenue for global customers to access the ABS product line.”

Bulls were previously housed in leased rearing and quarantine facilities not originally meant for housing bulls. The new facilities will provide improved safety and flexibility while handling bulls.

In 2012, the ABS Canada facility produced more than 2.5 million units of semen from 214 bulls, offering ABS Global another option for semen collection. The new main barn can house between 120-140 bulls and is 35,000 square feet with a separate 1,360 square foot quarantine facility.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-inc-builds-new-bull-housing-facilities-in-canada1ABS HOLSTEIN LINEUP CONTINUES TO OFFER GENETIC SOLUTIONShttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-holstein-lineup-continues-to-offer-genetic-solutions1Thu, 10 Jan 2013 06:00:00 GMTJordan SimonsonABS Global, Inc. continues to offer a powerful and diverse Holstein lineup, being home to 25 sires among the Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 Total Performance Index (TPISM) list. “At ABS, we want to offer genetic solutions that create the ideal cow for any herd. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. continues to offer a powerful and diverse Holstein lineup, being home to 25 sires among the Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 Total Performance Index (TPISM) list. “At ABS, we want to offer genetic solutions that create the ideal cow for any herd. ABS Global, Inc. continues to offer a powerful and diverse Holstein lineup, being home to 25 sires among the Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 Total Performance Index (TPISM) list.

“At ABS, we want to offer genetic solutions that create the ideal cow for any herd. We recognize that there are two parts to any mating, the bull and the cow. By offering a wide array of genetic options, we are able to match the genetic needs of any cow to deliver a profitable daughter and herd to our customers,” said Wayne DeBuhr, North America dairy product manager. “We have several exciting, breed-leading sires for TPI, Net Merit Dollars (NM$), Cheese Merit Dollars (CM$) and type.”

29HO14142 DORCY*BY continues to climb the charts, now at number two on the Holstein Association USA’s TPI list. With +1603 Milk and +101 combined Fat and Protein, DORCY sires beautifully-uddered daughters with +4.26 Fore Udder Attachment (FUA), +4.97 Rear Udder Height (RUH) and +4.57 Rear Udder Width (RUW). These daughters are built to last, exceling in type and fitness.

DORCY*BY is the leader in a long line of ABS BOLTON sons, including number eight on the December Top 100 TPI list, 29HO14062 GILLESPY*BY. With +2252 Milk and +2.39 Udder Composite (UC), GILLESPY sires eye-catching, functional cows. Another BOLTON son, 29HO14080 GAVIN, is +100 combined Fat and Protein, building cows that can succeed anywhere. These three sires are a part of the industry-leading, 28 sires in the Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 NM$ list.

The Judge’s Choice™ lineup, a partnership with St. Jacob’s ABC, has allowed ABS to bring customers amazing type sires, like 94HO14105 AFTERSHOCK. Siring showstoppers across the world, including the Junior and Reserve Junior Champion at the 2012 International Holstein Show, AFTERSHOCK is proving to have a huge affect in the winner’s circle. Providing incredible type for UC and Foot and Leg (F&L) improvement, his influence is showing up in pedigrees across the world.

We continue to offer elite genomic offerings through the ABS Primetime® lineup. At +2262 GTPI and +526 GNM$, ABS holds the highest genomic active list TPI and NM$ average of all studs. Leading the ABS lineup is 29HO16263 CASUAL with +2410 GTPI and +779 GNM$, a high type sire that transmits exceptional udders. Other ABS sires with greater than +2300 GTPI and +690 NM$ include: 29HO16532 CANNON, 29HO16153 PARADISE, 29HO16323 BAYARD and 29HO16609 MELMAN.

A long-time standout in the Holstein breed, 29HO13664 LEVI, continues to be an elite TPI, NM$ and CM$ sire, providing a rare combination of high production and fertility. 29HO13363 DOBERMAN is an extreme cheese merit sire that produces daughters with outstanding rear udders. 29HO13387 SHOUT sires strong, long-bodied progeny with high components and milk volume. With 29HO12209 SHOTTLE in his pedigree, SHOUT is an overall type and production improver.

New graduate standouts from December 2012 include: 29HO14450 HISTORY, 529HO14258 TABBER and 29HO14335 TWIST. 29HO14450 HISTORY, a unique Jardin son, combines milk with positive components. ABS’ highest new release at +2130 TPI, 529HO14258 TABBER is an all around type improver that will sire daughters with standout traits for udders and feet and legs. A unique Nifty son, 29HO14335 TWIST, graduates into the ABS lineup as a NM$ specialist. Coming in with +$707 NM$, use TWIST to increase profitability in your commercial herds.

To implement any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

“We take pride in the quality of our Jersey offering,” said Wayne DeBuhr, North America dairy product manager. “Our lineup is like the Jersey breed itself, small, but powerful. We want to provide quality genetics, not just quantity.”

29JE3624 VERNON remains atop the JPI list with +256 JPI, adding overall type along with production. Coming in with +657 CM$ and +611 NM$, the highest in the breed, VERNON spells profitability by increasing milk volume without losing components and the daughters are fancy! VERNON is one of the first and oldest proven sons from the breed’s current matriarch, D&E Paramount Violet, EX-90%.

New release, 529JE3646 VANCE, is an ABS Sexation™ exclusive sire, increasing foot angle and straightening leg set, creating durable, hard working cows. He is number two on the December JPI list as a maternal brother to number one JPI sire, VERNON. With +139 combined fat and protein, VANCE will increase the value of every hundredweight.

Proven success for ABS jerseys has led to success in genomics as well. 29JE3761 VISIONARY continued to have the highest JPI at +266 in the breed for the fifth consecutive sire summary. An outstanding component sire with +680 CM$ and +614 NM$ combines with +3.64 Jersey Udder Index (JUI) to produce profitable, long-lasting daughters. VANCE and VISIONARY lead the list of 14 ABS jersey sires being offered as ABS Sexation options.

The overall Jersey genomic list also proved to be powerful, with the average JPI being +210. ABS leads the genomic active list with an impressive +569 CM$ and +526 NM$ average; that is the highest in the industry by +22 CM$ and +15 NM$.

94JE3720 HIRED GUN breeds type and style into his daughters. This high customer satisfaction sire will provide a strong show ring presence. With a phenomenal JUI score of +5.26, HIRED GUN will sire daughters that will wow the judges. This, coupled with his long-life daughters, proves the value of HIRED GUN.

Producers across the country are impressed with the second-crop success of 529JE3506 LEGAL. Producing durable cows with outstanding udders, LEGAL is the perfect cross in any situation. As an ABS Sexation™ exclusive sire, his second-crop success is the perfect option to build for future success.

To incorporate any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/jersey-lineup-tops-the-jpi-cm-and-nm-charts1ABS Global Introduces Real World Data® For Bull Fertilityhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-introduces-real-world-data174-for-bull-fertility1Wed, 19 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMTJordan SimonsonDairy producers now have an improved tool to capture accurate fertility data, as ABS Global, Inc. announces the use of Real World Data® (RWD™) Bull Fertility in place of SCR data analysis, starting with the December 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. ABS Real World Data Bull Fertility is a tool for customers to best capture the genetic potential of ABS sires. ]]>Dairy producers now have an improved tool to capture accurate fertility data, as ABS Global, Inc. announces the use of Real World Data® (RWD™) Bull Fertility in place of SCR data analysis, starting with the December 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. ABS Real World Data Bull Fertility is a tool for customers to best capture the genetic potential of ABS sires.
“ABS produces and provides the highest quality, most consistent product in the industry, and has always endorsed the critical importance of fertility,” states Carlos Saviani, global strategic marketing director. “Because RWD is based on information from a diverse group of herds, most of them commercial herds, rankings are more precise and relevant to customer needs. The company’s decision to shift from SCR to RWD Bull Fertility is based on a desire to meet customer-driven expectations for accuracy, reliability and trustworthiness in bull fertility data.”

Data analysis are done in-house using an ABS proprietary process – only confirmed pregnancy events are used to determine bull rankings. The RWD model accounts for age of the cow, lactation number, stage of lactation, AI service number or times bred, management and environmental related differences, and herd-year-season effects.

“Real World Data is acquired directly from cooperating herds via dairy herd records software, and includes more than 12 million inseminations and 10,000 dairy sires,” adds Katie Olson, Ph.D. and ABS research scientist. “Rankings are published for bulls with more than 250 insemination outcomes and are updated monthly to provide herds with current high quality information for their genetic decision making.”

ABS Global’s RWD Bull Fertility is a tool for genetic improvement and reproductive solutions within dairy herds. Dairy breeders can rely on RWD for reliable decision making built by applying years of research to everyday data from ‘real herds like yours.’ ABS Global’s Real World Data Bull Fertility will provide accurate information gathered from a comprehensive, robust collection process. Relevant and reliable data from dairy producers, for dairy producers, will be provided in timely reports that allow access to the most current fertility rankings on ABS sires.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-introduces-real-world-data174-for-bull-fertility1New Sires In ABS Global Holstein Lineup Offer Diversityhttp://www.absglobal.com/new-sires-in-abs-global-holstein-lineup-offer-diversity1Fri, 07 Dec 2012 06:00:00 GMTJordan Simonson ABS Global Inc. graduated 17 new sires with the release of the December 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. The diverse offering includes new standouts in TPISM, Net Merit and type with the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank. ]]> ABS Global Inc. graduated 17 new sires with the release of the December 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. The diverse offering includes new standouts in TPISM, Net Merit and type with the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank.

ABS Global Inc. graduated 17 new sires with the release of the December 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. The diverse offering includes new standouts in TPISM, Net Merit and type with the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank.

“We here at ABS are excited about the new graduates and the wide variety of genetic solutions these bulls can offer to our valued customers,” said Wayne DeBuhr, North America dairy product manager. “ABS strives to offer genetics that will fulfill and exceed breeder’s goals and we are enthused to meet that demand.”

29HO14450 HISTORY, a unique Jardin son, combines milk with positive components. With over +120 pounds combined fat and protein, HISTORY spells profitability. Coming in with a PTA (Predicted Transmitting Ability) for type of +2.26, HISTORY sires high type daughters with moderate sized frames.

ABS’ highest new release at +2130 GTPI, 529HO14258 TABBER is an all around type improver that will sire daughters with standout traits for udders and feet and legs. TABBER adds stature, strength and openness, while still coming in as a calving ease sire. This ABS Sexation® sire may be used to increase all around profit.

A unique Nifty son, 29HO14335 TWIST, graduates into the ABS lineup as a Net Merit specialist. Coming in with a +$707 Net merit, use TWIST to increase profitability in your commercial herds. Siring medium-sized cows with great feet and legs that are built to last on concrete, TWIST spells customer satisfaction with +1,023 milk, +1.9 daughter pregnancy rate and +6.2 productive life.

ABS Rock Solid 29HO10124 BOLIVER son, 29HO14414 ORVILLE, debuts in the Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 TPISM List and will be an all around foot and leg improver. 29HO13916 JAGGER, a BOLTON son, is bred for profitability with +1506 milk while lowering the somatic cell score. 29HO14288 HADDY may be used for increased daughter fertility and calving ease. 29HO1414 BRUNO improves udders and feet and legs in one generation while still being a huge production improver. 29HO14344 CHASE and full brother, 29HO14343 CORNELL, provide long-lasting, trouble-free cows built to succeed in many environments.

The new graduate lineup also features six ABS Sexation® sires, including 529HO14258 TABBER. 529HO14180 REUBEN, a former ABS PrimetimeTM bull, creates many opportunities for use as an outcross sire with his sire stack, Tres x Ramos. An ABS Rock Solid BOLTON son, 529HO14184 SENNET, provides one of ABS’s highest semen fertility, coupled with +1500 milk. 529HO14225 SULLY sires fancy uddered daughters while increasing component yields. 529HO14229 TIZER is a Jose maternal brother to new release 529HO14258 TABBER, providing improved udder cleft as an outcross solution. 529HO14269 CZAR sires durable frames that have balanced strength and openness while improving daughter fertility. 529HO14297 DUSTON is an early Baxter son offering a new source for production at +1,455 milk. 529HO14136 MURDOCK is a high type Mascol son that transmits beautiful, balanced frames with +2.50 somatic cell score and double digit fat percentage increase.

To implement any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

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]]>http://www.absglobal.com/new-sires-in-abs-global-holstein-lineup-offer-diversity1ABS Global Now Seeking Summer 2013 Intern Candidateshttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-now-seeking-summer-2013-intern-candidates1Thu, 01 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global, Inc., a global producer and marketer of bovine genetics and related products, is currently seeking internship candidates for three positions being offered for the summer of 2013. Positions include an advertising and promotions internship, progeny promotions internship, and Genetic Management Systems® internship. Based in DeForest, Wis., the advertising and promotions internship position will offer exposure to marketing tactics geared to the successful candidate’s experience and inter...]]>ABS Global, Inc., a global producer and marketer of bovine genetics and related products, is currently seeking internship candidates for three positions being offered for the summer of 2013. Positions include an advertising and promotions internship, progeny promotions internship, and Genetic Management Systems® internship. Based in DeForest, Wis., the advertising and promotions internship position will offer exposure to marketing tactics geared to the successful candidate’s experience and inter...ABS Global, Inc., a global producer and marketer of bovine genetics and related products, is currently seeking internship candidates for three positions being offered for the summer of 2013. Positions include an advertising and promotions internship, progeny promotions internship, and Genetic Management Systems® internship.
Based in DeForest, Wis., the advertising and promotions internship position will offer exposure to marketing tactics geared to the successful candidate’s experience and interest. This includes but is not limited to the following: copy writing, proofing, graphic design, website production, internal communications, social media, event planning, office administration and market research.

The ideal applicant shall be pursuing a degree in agricultural marketing communications or related field. Knowledge of the dairy and/or beef industry as it relates to genetics is a plus. Candidates will be considered with evidenced written and verbal communication ability as well as comprehension to develop and complete marketing materials. Experience in Microsoft Office applications is essential, while understanding of InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and web content management is encouraged. Students with attention to detail, ability to handle multiple tasks, priorities, deadlines and willingness to learn will excel in this position.

The progeny promotions department is also seeking a summer intern to assist with locating young sire daughters and facilitate picturing and tour schedules throughout the U.S. The successful intern will seek out and evaluate daughters. Upon location of daughters to picture, the intern will coordinate photo sessions and assist with cattle preparation, including fitting. Additionally, the intern may facilitate daughter tours.

Qualified candidates will be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Dairy Science or related field. Collegiate Judging Team experience and experience fitting cattle is required. Commitment to the dairy industry demonstrated through strong involvement in industry-related organizations or clubs is preferred. This internship requires extensive travel, a high level of enthusiasm, self-motivation, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work independently. The ability to demonstrate a positive, professional image for ABS is essential. Valid driver’s license required.

The third and final opportunity as a Genetic Management System intern will be based out of the Deforest, Wis. office and will work closely with the GMS® department to assist with the day to day processing and troubleshooting of herd profiles while maintaining superior customer service to the end user, help support in house computer program software developments to ensure program integrity is maintained, and assist in designing and developing training and marketing materials for ABS customers and field representatives.

The successful candidate must be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in animal science, dairy science, ag business, or related field as well as demonstrate commitment to the dairy industry through strong involvement in dairy-related organizations. Candidates must be team-oriented with excellent verbal and written communications skills, have strong attention to detail, good organizational and problem solving skills. Proficiency with MS-Office programs and the internet is required.

A summer internship with ABS provides college students the experience necessary to launch a successful career in agribusiness. If interested in becoming a part of the ABS Global team, please forward a resume by December 3, 2012 to: ABS Global, Inc., ATTN: Director, Human Resources, 1525 River Road, DeForest, WI 53532, or fax to (608) 846 – 6442. Resumes can also be emailed to Nam.hr@genusplc.com. ABS Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/D/VM, and we politely request no phone calls or recruiter inquiries.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-now-seeking-summer-2013-intern-candidates1Profit With ABS Tour Showcases ABS Progeny & Programshttp://www.absglobal.com/profit-with-abs-tour-showcases-abs-progeny-amp-programs1Wed, 29 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global held its 2012 Large Herd Management Tour earlier this summer in southern Idaho. The tour drew nearly 100 participants world-wide, including individuals from Brazil, Belgium, Czech Republic, Jordan, Portugal, United Kingdom, and the United States. On the tour, participants were able to view progeny as well as outstanding results of ABS programs, including Reproductive Management System® (RMS®), Genetic Management System® (GMS®), ABS Cornerstone® progeny test program, and the ABS udder ...]]>ABS Global held its 2012 Large Herd Management Tour earlier this summer in southern Idaho. The tour drew nearly 100 participants world-wide, including individuals from Brazil, Belgium, Czech Republic, Jordan, Portugal, United Kingdom, and the United States. On the tour, participants were able to view progeny as well as outstanding results of ABS programs, including Reproductive Management System® (RMS®), Genetic Management System® (GMS®), ABS Cornerstone® progeny test program, and the ABS udder ...ABS Global held its 2012 Large Herd Management Tour earlier this summer in southern Idaho. The tour drew nearly 100 participants world-wide, including individuals from Brazil, Belgium, Czech Republic, Jordan, Portugal, United Kingdom, and the United States. On the tour, participants were able to view progeny as well as outstanding results of ABS programs, including Reproductive Management System® (RMS®), Genetic Management System® (GMS®), ABS Cornerstone® progeny test program, and the ABS udder care product line.

“This tour provided the opportunity for attendees to see ABS programs and services in action,” stated Ian Hildon, ABS regional manager. “With the large scale of the operations visited and their strong commitment to ABS genetics, we were able to view large groups of both Holstein and Jersey sired-progeny at each operation. This is a rare opportunity that allowed those on the tour to see the consistency of the groups on several operations. In addition to seeing progeny from ABS mainline sires, it was exciting to view results from the ABS Genetic Management System, ABS Cornerstone and ABS Reproductive Management Services.”

On the first day of the tour, the group had the opportunity to view successful GMS and udder care results at P&L Doornenbal Dairy of Caldwell, Idaho. They also traveled to Teunissen Dairy of Plymouth, Idaho. This 2,000-cow dairy showed the effectiveness of the ABS RMS® system.

Day two provided tour-goers a visit to Millenkamp Cattle, Inc., an exceptional calf-raising facility in Jerome, Idaho. After that, it was on to Aardema Dairy #2 of Jerome, Idaho, where outstanding daughters of ABS Jersey mainline sires 29JE3508 LYNDON, 29JE3616 STRUNK, 29JE3506 LEGAL, 29JE3510 HEADLINE, 29JE3593 AMOROUS and 29JE3615 JUPITER were available for viewing. The Aardema tour continued through the day, with stops at several additional dairies, the calf ranch and the Double A and Aardema Dairies’ calving facility. While at Double A dairy, attendees were able to view progeny of Holstein mainline sires 29HO13053 MCCORMICK, 29HO10493 BURT, 29HO13083 GARRETT, 29HO10124 BOLIVER, 29HO11614 JEEVES, and 29HO13664 LEVI.

On the final day of the tour, the nearly 100 visitors took in the Black Pine Heifer facility of Malta, Idaho, which is serviced by ABS RMS technicians. Double B Dairy of Murtaugh, Idaho, provided another opportunity to view ABS progeny, including daughters of 29HO13459 GOLDENBOY, 29HO13363 DOBERMAN, 29HO13325 MAGNETISM, 29HO13991 RUBLE, 29HO13723 GAMEDAY, 29HO13447 FAIR and 29HO13796 PONDER. Day three concluded with a visit to Dry Creek of Hansen, Idaho.

Pennsylvania producer Andrew Laffey of Glenville Farms shared his experiences on the tour. “The Profit with ABS Large Herd Management Tour was a great trip to learn about large scale dairies that still place high quality genetics as one of their top priorities. It was helpful to see how each dairy used GMS in different ways to get large strings of daughters with longevity and high components for the type of milk market they supply,” commented Andrew.

ABS Global would like to thank the following dairies for being a part of the 2012 Profit with ABS Large Herd Management Tour: P&L Doornenbal Dairy, Teunissen Dairy, Millenkamp Cattle, Inc., Double A and Aardema Dairies, Black Pine Cattle Company LLC, Double B Dairy LLC and Dry Creek Dairy.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/profit-with-abs-tour-showcases-abs-progeny-amp-programs1ABS Celebrates Beef Week & Rep Roundtable Eventhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-celebrates-beef-week-amp-rep-roundtable-event1Thu, 23 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global, Inc. hosted its annual beef week celebration the last week of July. This year marks the eleventh anniversary of this event which honors the top ABS Independent Beef Representatives across the United States and invites them to visit the ABS headquarters and participate in roundtable discussions. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. hosted its annual beef week celebration the last week of July. This year marks the eleventh anniversary of this event which honors the top ABS Independent Beef Representatives across the United States and invites them to visit the ABS headquarters and participate in roundtable discussions. ABS Global, Inc. hosted its annual beef week celebration the last week of July. This year marks the eleventh anniversary of this event which honors the top ABS Independent Beef Representatives across the United States and invites them to visit the ABS headquarters and participate in roundtable discussions.

Beef week participants present key factors of their AI business and share success stories with the opportunity to learn and build their respective business with insights from associates. Invitees also enjoyed a tour of the ABS facilities in DeForest and Dekorra, in addition to the sights and scenes of the Madison area.

The following honorees were recognized as 2012 Rep Roundtable winners in their respective districts:

Larry Rowden was honored as the District Sales Manager of the Year. Rowden manages beef representatives and sales for the Central Plains district in the U.S. Joining ABS in December 1979, 2012 will mark his 33rd year of service to the AI Industry. Rowden earned this award based on a formula including unit sales, sales revenues and percent increase in sales.]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-celebrates-beef-week-amp-rep-roundtable-event1Bolton Sons Lead The Way in ABS New Graduate Lineuphttp://www.absglobal.com/bolton-sons-lead-the-way-in-abs-new-graduate-lineup1Fri, 17 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.The legacy of ABS BOLTON sons continues with the release of August 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. A total of 13 new graduates entered the active ABS lineup, including four sons of ABS millionaire sire 29HO11111 BOLTON and three Jersey sires. “The new graduate lineup is headlined by an outstanding group of BOLTON sons that all have the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank,” stated Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. ]]>The legacy of ABS BOLTON sons continues with the release of August 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. A total of 13 new graduates entered the active ABS lineup, including four sons of ABS millionaire sire 29HO11111 BOLTON and three Jersey sires. “The new graduate lineup is headlined by an outstanding group of BOLTON sons that all have the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank,” stated Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. The legacy of ABS BOLTON sons continues with the release of August 2012 USDA Genetic Evaluations. A total of 13 new graduates entered the active ABS lineup, including four sons of ABS millionaire sire 29HO11111 BOLTON and three Jersey sires.

“The new graduate lineup is headlined by an outstanding group of BOLTON sons that all have the ability to produce highly functional, profitable daughters that can put milk in the tank,” stated Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. “ABS strives to offer genetics that will fulfill and exceed breeder’s goals. We feel that the strength of BOLTON sons and diversity of additional graduates will provide producers elite genetics and desirable options within the focus of their sire selection to increase profit.”

BOLTON son 29HO14142 DORCY*BY leads the new graduate lineup and made his mark as the number three TPI sire on Holstein Association USA’s Top 100 TPISM list with +2266 GTPI. This BOLTON x Bret global sire of sons adds +3.13 UDC and +2.76 FLC, as well as +1347 Milk and +6.7 PL to bring functionality and profit to any dairy operation.

Graduate 29HO14080 GAVIN*BY is a full brother to April grad 29HO14062 GILLESPY*BY, and making his own mark on the ABS active lineup. Combining two ABS millionaire sires in his pedigree, this BOLTON x SHOTTLE son stands with +2104 GTPI and is tied as the number one bull at ABS for Fat, with +77 lbs. He adds over +2.00 of PTA Type and Udder Composite and 8% Calving Ease to build cows that can succeed in any operation.

An exciting new high-type Holstein graduate from the ABS Primetime™ lineup and Judge’s Choice™ program, 94HO14105 AFTERSHOCK provides incredible type linears, with +3.32 PTAT, +2.70 UDC and +2.24 FLC. AFTERSHOCK is a SHOTTLE son of the elite EX-92 Durham Atlee, and the anticipation is building as these daughters continue to calve in with great success in North America.

“We have been hearing great things about AFTERSHOCK, and that all came through in his data this week. His type is among the best of the breed, and his udder attachments continue to stand out on the daughters. We could not be more excited to watch the continued development of AFTERSHOCK daughters and the future this bull holds,” commented Tim Abbott, owner of ST. Jacobs ABC.

29HO14109 BRENDAL is another result of a BOLTON x SHOTTLE millionaire mating from the Regancrest Barbie family. The number two sire in the breed for udders at +3.87 UDC, this previous ABS Primetime™ sire returns to the lineup as a graduate with +3.04 PTAT and +1903 GTPI. BRENDAL is being offered as both a conventional and sexation sire. The final BOLTON son, 29HO14137 MICHELOB (BOLTON x Potter) will be offered as a sexed exclusive sire. MICHELOB provides excellent TPI at +2002 GTPI, and adds strong udder attachments and high production to daughters with balanced frames.

29JE3647 VIBRANT pilots the new Jersey graduates, with elite JPI (+216), Net Merit $ (+530) and production (+2027 Milk). He is a RESTORE x Paramount son and successful sire of sons, ideal for Danish genetics. 29JE3642 GATSBY was also introduced this week, and this Impuls x Brazo son produces beautiful rear udders and adds milk volume while increasing percentages. The last Jersey graduate is 29JE3630 MAGNIFICO, a LEXINGTON x Lemvig son producing long-lasting cows with strong udder attachments and component improvement.

To implement any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/bolton-sons-lead-the-way-in-abs-new-graduate-lineup1Dan Peapenburg Accepts Expanded Role With ABS Teamhttp://www.absglobal.com/dan-peapenburg-accepts-expanded-role-with-abs-team1Wed, 18 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Dan Peapenburg has accepted an expanded role with ABS Global, Inc. as a genetic management specialist. “Many ABS customers throughout Wisconsin are familiar with Peapenburg’s top-notch work as a Genetic Management System® (GMS®) evaluator. ]]>Dan Peapenburg has accepted an expanded role with ABS Global, Inc. as a genetic management specialist. “Many ABS customers throughout Wisconsin are familiar with Peapenburg’s top-notch work as a Genetic Management System® (GMS®) evaluator. Dan Peapenburg has accepted an expanded role with ABS Global, Inc. as a genetic management specialist.

“Many ABS customers throughout Wisconsin are familiar with Peapenburg’s top-notch work as a Genetic Management System® (GMS®) evaluator. Because today’s dairymen demand innovative problem solving and consulting services, the GMS team is committed to providing localized genetic expertise for our customers. Dan’s experience and talent for evaluating modern dairy cattle and evaluating the genetic needs of progressive dairy production systems will be imperative to his success in this role,” stated Dan Bauer, genetic management programs manager. “Peapenburg, with over 15 years of experience as a GMS evaluator, has demonstrated proficiency in pairing GMS with ABS’ diverse sire lineup to help customers achieve their genetic and herd performance goals.”

In his role of genetic management specialist, Peapenburg will work closely with key customers in assigned areas to provide genetic consulting and sire selection assistance after each sire summary run. He will be responsible for collecting GMS data on customer herds through linear evaluations as well as analysis of pedigree and reproduction records. Through frequent communication and follow-up, Peapenburg will facilitate GMS protocols and procedures to ensure customers maximize genetic gain and lifetime profitability.

Additionally, Peapenburg will assist with field training of domestic and international GMS evaluators. He will use his unique experiences in the field and vast industry knowledge to assist the GMS team in striving for continued innovation so GMS continues to successfully meet the needs of the modern dairy producer.

“The GMS team is fortunate to have someone of Dan Peapenburg’s caliber on the ABS team to work with our domestic and global customers. We look forward to him expanding his current responsibilities in this new role, and for his continued positive impact on customer profitability and GMS development,” Bauer commented.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/dan-peapenburg-accepts-expanded-role-with-abs-team1ABS Global Genetic Management System World's Most Widely Used Mating Programhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-genetic-management-system-world39s-most-widely-used-mating-program1Thu, 12 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.It has been another record-breaking year for the ABS Genetic Management System® (GMS®), a service offered exclusively by ABS Global, Inc. GMS successfully mated more that 5.81 million animals from July 2011 through June 2012 - an increase of nearly one million animals from the prior year. To date, over 45 million cows have been mated through the GMS program. ]]>It has been another record-breaking year for the ABS Genetic Management System® (GMS®), a service offered exclusively by ABS Global, Inc. GMS successfully mated more that 5.81 million animals from July 2011 through June 2012 - an increase of nearly one million animals from the prior year. To date, over 45 million cows have been mated through the GMS program.

It has been another record-breaking year for the ABS Genetic Management System® (GMS®), a service offered exclusively by ABS Global, Inc. GMS successfully mated more that 5.81 million animals from July 2011 through June 2012 - an increase of nearly one million animals from the prior year. To date, over 45 million cows have been mated through the GMS program.

With more than 300 evaluators globally in over 40 different countries, GMS is the most widely utilized mating program in the world. For 43 years, GMS has been building cows that are tailor-made for individual operations, ensuring that customers’ herds remain profitable for years to come.

GMS evaluators are certified genetic consultants who provide customers with the tools to build a complete and balanced cow that excels in fertility, production and longevity.

“GMS allows us to make a better type of cow that is profitable, is easier to manage in a freestall setup and is problem free. When we started, our objective was to improve the udders and feet and legs on our cows. The cows just keep getting better and better.” - Chris Jongsma, South Creek Dairy, Earlimart, CA

GMS places an emphasis on reliability, utilizing pedigree and linear data from the largest sire database in the industry with proven results globally. GMS also offers the highest level of inbreeding protection of any program available in the industry.

"I've been on GMS for 7 years, and the veryfirst thing that made me look at GMS was the reliability of ABS services and the inbreeding control that GMS provides. I've noticed more uniformity in my herd and significant improvements to my herd’s udders.The program has saved me time, and the recommendations are veryeasy touse." - Jan Noordegraaf, Neto-Arapoti, PR, Brazil

GMS evaluators look at both the production and type of both the sire and dam when making mating recommendations, the only mating program to do this. GMS is truly the only genetic management tool in the industry that can offer unbiased mating recommendations, complete inbreeding and genetic recessive control, and offer measurable results that meet the needs for each customer’s specific breeding goals.

“GMS really works for me, I started using the system nine years ago to simplify my breeding program and to produce a more standardized herd. I have without doubt reached my goals, the herd is more uniform and the heifers have continually improved.” - Stephen Bloor, Park Farm, Siddington, Macclesfield, Cheshire, United Kingdom

To learn more about what GMS can do for your herd, contact your local ABS Representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-genetic-management-system-world39s-most-widely-used-mating-program12012 ABS Photo Contest Winners Selectedhttp://www.absglobal.com/2012-abs-photo-contest-winners-selected1Thu, 05 Jul 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Six winners have been selected in the second annual ABS Global, Inc. photo contest. In the dairy division, an entry from Bethany Couchman of California was named the winner. ]]>Six winners have been selected in the second annual ABS Global, Inc. photo contest. In the dairy division, an entry from Bethany Couchman of California was named the winner. Six winners have been selected in the second annual ABS Global, Inc. photo contest.

In the dairy division, an entry from Bethany Couchman of California was named the winner. Her unique photo of a curious heifer captured the attention of the judges. Second place was awarded to Paul Trapp of Wisconsin for a photo of his son Kole with a young Brown Swiss calf. Michelle Schmitt, also of Wisconsin, captured third place honors with a picturesque photo of Hornstead Dairy and the Brian and Lori Horn herd of Brillion, Wis.

In the beef division, first place was awarded to Ricardo Arias of Wyoming and a photo titled “Smells Like Branding Time.” CJ Altenburg of Colorado took second place honors with beef heifers and a photo featuring breeding heifers in Walden. Finally, third place went to Merlyn Sandbulte of Kansas for submitting a photo of an ABS representative filling tanks.

Entries for the ABS Global photo contest were collected through the month of May, 2012. ABS would like to thank those that submitted photos for this year’s contest, and encourage fans to check out the 2013 dairy and beef calendars to view some of the winning photos and additional entries submitted to the contest.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/2012-abs-photo-contest-winners-selected1Bill Rauen Joins ABS Team as Dairy Sire Analysthttp://www.absglobal.com/bill-rauen-joins-abs-team-as-dairy-sire-analyst1Thu, 28 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Bill Rauen has joined ABS Global, Inc. as a dairy sire analyst and member of the regional sire analyst team. “Bill has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. ]]>Bill Rauen has joined ABS Global, Inc. as a dairy sire analyst and member of the regional sire analyst team. “Bill has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. Bill Rauen has joined ABS Global, Inc. as a dairy sire analyst and member of the regional sire analyst team.

“Bill has a wealth of experience in the dairy cattle breeding and A.I. industry, including a thorough understanding of genomics, evaluation systems and pedigrees that will make him an asset to the sire analyst team,” commented Mark Smith, director of global bovine product development. “He has worked with sire analysts in the past and his attention to detail and ability to work in a team atmosphere will ensure his success in this role.”

As a dairy sire analyst, Rauen will work closely with ABS employees, representatives and customers to enhance the understanding and value of ABS dairy genetics. He will use his knowledge of cattle evaluation systems, genomic evaluations and pedigrees to effectively communicate and develop professional relationships with Holstein breeders. Rauen will utilize sound financial management skills to acquire bulls for the ABS sire lineup in the western United States and Canada.

Rauen has been very active in the dairy and AI industry. At his family’s Farnear Holstein farm of Farley, Iowa., he has helped with mating and marketing of elite Holstein cattle. In his most recent position as an AI district sales manager, Bill provided direct sales to customers, as well as genetic and reproductive solutions for large herds. He also mated cows and heifers and managed the budget for his sales area. In addition to these responsibilities, Bill has remained a chair for the Iowa Holstein Association sale and is involved with the Purebred Dairy Cattle Club. Bill is a graduate of Iowa State University and will be based out of Peosta, Iowa.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/bill-rauen-joins-abs-team-as-dairy-sire-analyst1ABS Announces 2012 Beef Representative Roundtable Winnershttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-announces-2012-beef-representative-roundtable-winners1Wed, 27 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.An elite group of authorized ABS Independent Representatives have earned recognition to participate in up‐coming ABS beef week events. A customer’s local ABS Representative serves an important role for ABS Global, Inc. Each year they are the voice and face of ABS in the field serving customers. ]]>An elite group of authorized ABS Independent Representatives have earned recognition to participate in up‐coming ABS beef week events. A customer’s local ABS Representative serves an important role for ABS Global, Inc. Each year they are the voice and face of ABS in the field serving customers. An elite group of authorized ABS Independent Representatives have earned recognition to participate in up‐coming ABS beef week events.

A customer’s local ABS Representative serves an important role for ABS Global, Inc. Each year they are the voice and face of ABS in the field serving customers. Representatives spend countless hours aiding in synchronization, sire selection and providing arm service during the breeding season.

To celebrate the hard work and success of the beef division, ABS hosts an annual beef week in July. The last 11 years this celebration has included awarding the top beef representatives for their achievements and dedication by inviting them to participate in beef week and rep roundtable discussions. Selected representatives tour the ABS facilities, meet staff, listen to bull presentations and present their business models for success with the ABS staff and fellow representatives.

2012 ABS Representative Roundtable winners from around the country are listed below. ABS Global congratulates each of these Independent Representatives for their accomplishments and dedicated service they provide.

Peak Performance Genetics, Jennifer Svoboda, Nebraska

Brady Larson, Kansas

Genetic Focus Inc., Doug and Michelle Birt, Iowa

Chrisman Cattle Services Inc., Travis Chrisman, Nebraska

Lynn George, Wyoming

Noble Genetics, Adam Noble, Colorado

Jon Herrick, Nebraska

Casey Hagenah, Washington

Genetics Plus LLC, David McGlothlin, Kentucky

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-announces-2012-beef-representative-roundtable-winners1ABS Bolton Sons Receive Visit From Classifierhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-bolton-sons-receive-visit-from-classifier1Mon, 18 Jun 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global sires and BOLTON sons 29HO14062 GILLESPY*BY and 29HO14080 GAVIN*BY received an excellent first visit from the classifier this month, when they scored Excellent-93 and Excellent-92, respectively. “GILLESPY and GAVIN are the beginning of an era in ABS BOLTON sons, and both hail from the same million-unit mating of BOLTON x SHOTTLE,” stated Scott Bentley, global dairy product manager. “These bulls produce daughters with outstanding production and healthy udders, and are globally proven s...]]>ABS Global sires and BOLTON sons 29HO14062 GILLESPY*BY and 29HO14080 GAVIN*BY received an excellent first visit from the classifier this month, when they scored Excellent-93 and Excellent-92, respectively. “GILLESPY and GAVIN are the beginning of an era in ABS BOLTON sons, and both hail from the same million-unit mating of BOLTON x SHOTTLE,” stated Scott Bentley, global dairy product manager. “These bulls produce daughters with outstanding production and healthy udders, and are globally proven s...ABS Global sires and BOLTON sons 29HO14062 GILLESPY*BY and 29HO14080 GAVIN*BY received an excellent first visit from the classifier this month, when they scored Excellent-93 and Excellent-92, respectively.

“GILLESPY and GAVIN are the beginning of an era in ABS BOLTON sons, and both hail from the same million-unit mating of BOLTON x SHOTTLE,” stated Scott Bentley, global dairy product manager. “These bulls produce daughters with outstanding production and healthy udders, and are globally proven sons of two outstanding ABS sires. We congratulate De-Su Holsteins for breeding these individuals.”

GILLESPY and GAVIN were bred by De-Su Holsteins and the Dean and Sue Meyer family of New Albin, IA. GILLESPY graduated to the ABS lineup in April of this year, and his full brother GAVIN is a mid-summary release now available to breeders in North America. These sires offer an elite combination of high production and superb type, and are a true testament to the power of ABS BOLTON sons.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-bolton-sons-receive-visit-from-classifier1ABS Global Announces Bullboard Contest Winnershttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-bullboard-contest-winners1Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global, Inc. announces the winners of the ABS bullboard slogan contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon. The winning slogan is “With ABS, your calves are only an arm’s length away,” submitted by Jackie Shankey of Black River Falls, Wis. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. announces the winners of the ABS bullboard slogan contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon. The winning slogan is “With ABS, your calves are only an arm’s length away,” submitted by Jackie Shankey of Black River Falls, Wis. ABS Global, Inc. announces the winners of the ABS bullboard slogan contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon.

The winning slogan is “With ABS, your calves are only an arm’s length away,” submitted by Jackie Shankey of Black River Falls, Wis. Jackie’s clever slogan will be displayed on the bull board through the month of May.

ABS would also like to recognize two additional contending slogans. Ralph Endres of Prairie du Sac, Wis. submitted this slogan – “A bull’s favorite pickup line – man‐ure cute.” In another clever play on words, Janice Mashak threw in “We don’t build houses but we can supply the studs.” Janice is from Sun Prairie, Wis.

The ABS Global interstate bullboard sits next to I‐94/I‐39, just a few hundred feet away from the North America headquarters in DeForest, Wis. Each month, new slogans are posted that refer to the dairy and beef genetics business. This iconic board has become a must‐see for those traveling, whether making a daily commute or visiting for World Dairy Expo in October.

ABS Global would like to thank everyone that contributed to the over 300 slogans submitted for this contest. Stay tuned for more contest favorites and catchy slogans on the board throughout the remainder of 2012.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-bullboard-contest-winners1ABS Global Announces 2012 Photo Contesthttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-2012-photo-contest1Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the 2012 photo contest, open to all photographers including ABS Global, Inc. customers, employees, and employee family members. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the 2012 photo contest, open to all photographers including ABS Global, Inc. customers, employees, and employee family members. ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the 2012 photo contest, open to all photographers including ABS Global, Inc. customers, employees, and employee family members. ABS is searching for scenic and on‐farm photos of ABS‐sired offspring and customers to use in promotional items, included but not limited to the yearly calendar, posters, brochures and the company website.

There is no limit to the number of photos that can be submitted, however, a maximum of two photos per entrant will be published in the annual calendar. All photos must be submitted through an online entry form via the ABS Global, Inc. website by May 31, 2012. Photos should be a high resolution (at least 300 dpi or 3200 x 2400 pixels) JPEG image and 8”x10” or larger. The contest includes both vertical and horizontal photos.

Entries will be judged and preference will be given to photos that include ABS sired cattle. ABS apparel will be

awarded to the top entries, which will be announced by June 30, 2012.

Photographers will receive credit for any photo used. By submitting a digital photo for consideration in this contest, you are stating that you have secured the necessary permissions for all photo content and are authorizing ABS Global, Inc. to use the photo in any and all ABS Global, Inc. promotions or as ABS Global, Inc. feels appropriate. ABS Global, Inc. does not accept any responsibility for photos that may be reproduced or used without these permissions.

To submit your entries, visit the online form at: absglobal.com/photo‐contest‐form‐2012

Questions? Feel free to contact ABS Global, Inc. at 1‐800‐ABS‐STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-2012-photo-contest1The Beginning of an Era - ABS Global Releases Bolton Sonshttp://www.absglobal.com/the-beginning-of-an-era-abs-global-releases-bolton-sons1Wed, 04 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Two 29HO11111 BOLTON sons are leading the excitement at ABS Global with the release of the April USDA sire evaluations – 29HO14062 GILLESPY and 29HO13991 RUBLE are two of the first proven sons available and are looking to follow in the great BOLTON’s footsteps. Both new releases are backed by two generations of ABS millionaire sires. 29HO14062 De‐Su GILLESPY‐ET*BY is a BOLTON x SHOTTLE that provides an elite combination of high production and superb type. ]]>Two 29HO11111 BOLTON sons are leading the excitement at ABS Global with the release of the April USDA sire evaluations – 29HO14062 GILLESPY and 29HO13991 RUBLE are two of the first proven sons available and are looking to follow in the great BOLTON’s footsteps. Both new releases are backed by two generations of ABS millionaire sires. 29HO14062 De‐Su GILLESPY‐ET*BY is a BOLTON x SHOTTLE that provides an elite combination of high production and superb type.

Two 29HO11111 BOLTON sons are leading the excitement at ABS Global with the release of the April USDA sire evaluations – 29HO14062 GILLESPY and 29HO13991 RUBLE are two of the first proven sons available and are looking to follow in the great BOLTON’s footsteps. Both new releases are backed by two generations of ABS millionaire sires.

29HO14062 De‐Su GILLESPY‐ET*BY is a BOLTON x SHOTTLE that provides an elite combination of high production and superb type. His daughters are standouts in udder attachments (+2.39 UDC) with excellent mobility (+2.31 FLC) and are long bodied, clean boned individuals with depth and openness of rib. Proven in both the U.S. and Canada, GILLESPY is generating excitement around the globe with an impressive group of first crop daughters. Take the GILLESPY virtual daughter tour on the web at http://youtu.be/8IoAVjSHU24.

“GILLESPY combines two ABS millionaire sires with the BWM Georgia family into one wonderful package,” notes sire analyst Paul Trapp. “His family has lived at De‐Su for several generations and offspring from the family age gracefully with outstanding udders.”

29HO13991 Kings‐Ransom B RUBLE*TY is a BOLTON x BOLIVER son that combines the classic traits of BOLTON and BOLIVER to continue an ABS legacy of success and production. Outstanding udders and large volumes of milk through many lactations will be especially pleasing to producers, as well as RUBLE’s fertility, TPI, and consistent composite numbers.

ABS Cornerstone® specialists Hannah Worden and Kirsten French are excited to report the success of first crop daughters from RUBLE, commenting, “RUBLE’s dam made just short of 40,000 lbs in 365 days as a two year old and is backed by four generations of bull mothers. RUBLE daughters are looking great, and he is quickly becoming an ABS Cornerstone® team favorite.”

To implement one of these BOLTON sons in your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1‐800‐ABS‐STUD.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/the-beginning-of-an-era-abs-global-releases-bolton-sons1ABS Global Announces Bullboard Contesthttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-bullboard-contest1Thu, 08 Mar 2012 06:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the ABS bullboard contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon. The ABS Global interstate bullboard sits next to I‐94/I‐39, just a few hundred feet away from the North America headquarters in DeForest, Wis. ]]>ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the ABS bullboard contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon. The ABS Global interstate bullboard sits next to I‐94/I‐39, just a few hundred feet away from the North America headquarters in DeForest, Wis. ABS Global, Inc. is pleased to announce the ABS bullboard contest, open to all dairy and beef enthusiasts with creative ideas for this globally recognized interstate icon.

The ABS Global interstate bullboard sits next to I‐94/I‐39, just a few hundred feet away from the North America headquarters in DeForest, Wis. Each month, new slogans are posted that refer to the dairy and beef genetics business. This iconic board has become a must‐see for those traveling, whether making a daily commute or visiting for World Dairy Expo in October.

All dairy and beef industry fans are encouraged to participate. There is no limit to the number of slogans that can be submitted. All suggestions must be entered through an online entry form via the ABS Global, Inc. website by March 31, 2012. The winning entries will be announced the first week of April, and slogans will be displayed through the remaining months of 2012. It is encouraged to use holiday themes and influential events when submitting slogan entries.

Questions? Feel free to contact the ABS marketing group at ABS.Marketing@genusplc.com.

To submit entries, visit the ABS website at absglobal.com/usa.

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies and uddercare products. Marketing in more than 80 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-global-announces-bullboard-contest1St. Jacobs Animal Breeding Corporation Awards Calf in Fall Promotional Contesthttp://www.absglobal.com/st-jacobs-animal-breeding-corporation-awards-calf-in-fall-promotional-contest1Wed, 29 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Klinedell Farms of Myerstown, Pa. was recently awarded a St. Jacobs ABC‐sired calf as part of a fall promotional giveaway in the eastern United States. ]]>Klinedell Farms of Myerstown, Pa. was recently awarded a St. Jacobs ABC‐sired calf as part of a fall promotional giveaway in the eastern United States.

Klinedell Farms of Myerstown, Pa. was recently awarded a St. Jacobs ABC‐sired calf as part of a fall promotional giveaway in the eastern United States.

In the fall, customers were entered in a drawing for every $250 of STJ semen purchased for an opportunity to win a June 2011 calf from EX‐96 Tri‐Day Ashlyn sired by 94HO14758 MASTERPIECE. The contest was a huge success, with over 400 entries collected. The winner of the calf was drawn at the customer meeting held in Lancaster County, Pa., in January. Nearly 600 customers were in attendance.

Klinedell Farms looks forward to working with their 2012 show prospect. The family has a 100‐cow Registered Holstein herd that focuses on type, in addition to 30 Jerseys. The Kline family farms 500 acres and sons Jacob and Jason are very involved in the farm. They also enjoy showing at local and regional shows in Pennsylvania, and Jacob plans to show their new MASTERPIECE calf in 2012 at the Junior Holstein shows. The family’s ABS sales representative is Jeff Peifer.

Due to an incredible amount of support in the contest, STJ added an additional drawing for 100 units of STJ semen. Brouillette Farms and Hannes Waibel in Richford, Vt., were named the lucky winners of these units. Brouillette Farms’ ABS representative is Bill Flick.

St. Jacobs ABC would like to extend a thank you to those in the east that helped make this promotion such a success.

Located in Fairfield, Vermont, St. Jacobs ABC has been in the development of elite dairy genetics since 1958. St. Jacobs ABC is the supplier of some of ABS' most prestigious genetics. Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, ABS Global is the world leader in bovine genetics, reproduction services and technologies. ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/st-jacobs-animal-breeding-corporation-awards-calf-in-fall-promotional-contest1Dr. Katie Olson Joins ABS Team as Research Scientisthttp://www.absglobal.com/dr-katie-olson-joins-abs-team-as-research-scientist1Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Dr. Katie Olson recently joined the ABS Global team as research scientist. “Katie’s exceptional experience with genetic and genomic evaluations and her background in the dairy and beef industries will make her an asset to the ABS research team,” stated Dr. ]]>Dr. Katie Olson recently joined the ABS Global team as research scientist. “Katie’s exceptional experience with genetic and genomic evaluations and her background in the dairy and beef industries will make her an asset to the ABS research team,” stated Dr. Dr. Katie Olson recently joined the ABS Global team as research scientist.

“Katie’s exceptional experience with genetic and genomic evaluations and her background in the dairy and beef industries will make her an asset to the ABS research team,” stated Dr. Marj Faust, senior research director. “We look forward to having Katie work with ABS customers, independent representatives, and employees around the world.”

Olson grew up on a 280-cow mixed breed dairy in Spring Valley, Minnesota. After earning a Master of Science from Colorado State and a doctorate in breeding and genetics from Virginia Tech, she worked at USDA’s Animal Improvement Program Laboratory (AIPL) as a post doctoral research associate for Virginia Tech and most recently for the National Association of Animal Breeders. While working out of USDA-AIPL, Dr. Olson’s main duties included assisting with monthly dairy genomic evaluations and conducting research on genomic evaluations in dairy cattle. Katie is a 2002 graduate in agricultural education and extension from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and served as intern agriscience teacher at Pulaski High School in Pulaski, Wis.

As research scientist, Olson will be a key member of the ABS research team, developing products and tools to service ABS customers, including working with ABS Real World Data™. Olson’s role will also bring her in contact with ABS’ field trial network, InFocus data and products, and ABS customers.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/dr-katie-olson-joins-abs-team-as-research-scientist1ABS Icon SHOTTLE Reaches One Million Units Producedhttp://www.absglobal.com/abs-icon-shottle-reaches-one-million-units-produced1Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Global phenomenon 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE-ET EX-96 has become the 11th sire at ABS Global to achieve millionaire status. This monumental achievement is an attribute to his influence and success as one of ABS’ most well-respected sires. SHOTTLE produced his one millionth unit of semen on December 20, 2011. ]]>Global phenomenon 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE-ET EX-96 has become the 11th sire at ABS Global to achieve millionaire status. This monumental achievement is an attribute to his influence and success as one of ABS’ most well-respected sires. SHOTTLE produced his one millionth unit of semen on December 20, 2011. Global phenomenon 29HO12209 Picston SHOTTLE-ET EX-96 has become the 11th sire at ABS Global to achieve millionaire status. This monumental achievement is an attribute to his influence and success as one of ABS’ most well-respected sires.

SHOTTLE produced his one millionth unit of semen on December 20, 2011. He boasts seven sons on Holstein USA’s Top 100 TPI list, including the industry’s highest son, 29HO13846 TRIGGER. SHOTTLE remains a top 100 sire himself, with over +2000 TPI and 47,000 milking daughters. ABS is currently marketing conventional and sexed semen from over 20 SHOTTLE sons globally.

“SHOTTLE has left an undeniable impact on the industry,” stated Mark Smith, global director of product development. “He and his sons have the capability to transmit outstanding type with health and fitness traits, ideal for today’s dairy producers around the globe.”

SHOTTLE graduated from the ABS Cornerstone program and entered the active lineup in 2004. His early proof numbers indicated that he was something special, but it was in the following years that SHOTTLE built his reputation as a global icon of the Holstein breed. SHOTTLE stood atop Holstein USA’s Top 100 list for seven straight sire summary releases (from January 2008 to January 2010), remained a top 15 sire the next five runs, and today at nearly 12 years of age, remains in the top 25.

Housed in the Genus ABS production facility in North Wales, United Kingdom, SHOTTLE has been a favorite with all production staff that have cared for him due to his unique character. He displays pride and receives the outstanding attention from a highly skilled and dedicated livestock team. SHOTTLE is exceptionally well-tempered, a trait that he transmits to his progeny.

“A true superstar and ever the show off, at 12 years of age SHOTTLE enjoys nothing more than to let off steam by playing in the bark, displaying the agility and youth of a bull half his age,” noted James Hudson, U.K. operations manager.

To be a part of SHOTTLE and his global impact, contact your ABS Representative.

]]>http://www.absglobal.com/abs-icon-shottle-reaches-one-million-units-produced1Net Merit is Prominent in ABS Active Lineuphttp://www.absglobal.com/net-merit-is-prominent-in-abs-active-lineup1Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMTABS Global, Inc.Profitability has never been so important in the dairy industry, and with the ABS Global active sire lineup following the December 2011 USDA data release, producers can look to ABS more than ever to provide the Net Merit sires needed in a breeding program. “ABS Global has led the industry for Top 100 Net Merit and TPI sires for the past several sire summaries and is now recognized as the true Net Merit leader,” commented Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. “The active lineup can p...]]>Profitability has never been so important in the dairy industry, and with the ABS Global active sire lineup following the December 2011 USDA data release, producers can look to ABS more than ever to provide the Net Merit sires needed in a breeding program. “ABS Global has led the industry for Top 100 Net Merit and TPI sires for the past several sire summaries and is now recognized as the true Net Merit leader,” commented Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. “The active lineup can p...Profitability has never been so important in the dairy industry, and with the ABS Global active sire lineup following the December 2011 USDA data release, producers can look to ABS more than ever to provide the Net Merit sires needed in a breeding program.

“ABS Global has led the industry for Top 100 Net Merit and TPI sires for the past several sire summaries and is now recognized as the true Net Merit leader,” commented Wayne DeBuhr, North America Dairy Product Manager. “The active lineup can provide component-minded producers the opportunity to capitalize on high fat and protein sires to achieve maximum profitability.”

ABS leads the industry with sires on the Top 100 NM$ list at 32, which stands 11 more than the closest competitor (based on A or L status and 85% Reliability). Of the sires at 97% Reliability, ABS offers five bulls over +400 NM$. When it comes to genomics, nine ABS sires test over +700 NM$.

The top three sires for Net Merit at ABS after the December run include the number two TPI sire, 29HO13664 LEVI, as well as 29HO13053 MCCORMICK and number nine TPI sire 29HO13846 TRIGGER. LEVI, a Buckeye x Oman son, holds his position with +724 NM$, and adds +853 CM$ for extreme fat and protein production. MCCORMICK, an Oman x Durham, comes in at +646 NM$ and +772 CM$. December 2011 graduate TRIGGER is a SHOTTLE x BOLIVER son with +629 NM$ and +674 CMS, and adds +627 Milk for maximum daughter profitability.

To implement any of these sires into your breeding program, contact your local ABS representative or call 1-800-ABS-STUD.